Question

while a certain isotope decays, it emits photons. what kind of decay is happening?
○ alpha decay
○ beta decay
○ gamma decay
○ positron decay

Explanation:

• Alpha decay emits alpha particles (helium nuclei, \( ^4_2\text{He} \)).
• Beta decay emits beta particles (electrons or positrons).
• Gamma decay emits photons (gamma rays) as it involves the release of high - energy electromagnetic radiation from an excited nucleus.
• Positron decay is a type of beta decay that emits positrons. Since the isotope emits photons, it is gamma decay.

Answer:

C. gamma decay