Question

Which kind of nuclear decay does not alter the identity of the atom?

Answer 1

For alpha and beta decay it does because the proton number changes.
During gamma, there is no change of identity, just energy

Answer 2

Answer: gamma decay

Step-by-step explanation:

1. Alpha decay: In this process, alpha particles is emitted when a heavier nuclei decays into lighter nuclei. The alpha particle released has a charge of +2 units.

`_Z^A\textrm{X}\rightarrow _(Z-2)^(A-4)+_2^4\alpha`

2. Beta-decay: In this process, a neutron gets converted into a proton and an electron releasing a beta-particle. The beta particle released carries a charge of -1 units.

`_Z^A\textrm{X}\rightarrow _(Z+1)^A\textrm{Y}+_(-1)^0\beta`

3. Gamma decay: in this process, an unstable nuclei gives off excess energy by a spontaneous electromagnetic process and releases
`\gamma -radiations`. These radiations does not carry any charge and are electrically neutral and thus the identity of the atom undergoing gamma decay do not change.

`_Z^A\textrm{X}^*\rightarrow _Z^A\textrm{X}+_0^0\gamma`