Final answer:
Alpha particles decrease atomic number and mass number by 2 and 4 respectively, beta particles increase atomic number by 1, gamma rays do not affect atomic number or mass number
Step-by-step explanation:
There are three types of radiation: alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays. Each type affects an atom's atomic number and mass number differently.
Alpha particles consist of two protons and two neutrons and have a charge of +2. When an atom emits an alpha particle, its atomic number decreases by 2 and its mass number decreases by 4.
Beta particles are high-energy electrons. When an atom emits a beta particle, a neutron inside the nucleus is converted into a proton. This increases the atom's atomic number by 1 while the mass number remains the same.
Gamma rays are high-energy electromagnetic waves. They do not affect an atom's atomic number or mass number.
Learn more about how different types of radiation affect atomic and mass numbers