AP Physics 2: Algebra-Based Flashcards: Types of Radioactive Decay
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 14 cards to help you master important concepts.
What fundamental particle transformation happens during beta-plus decay?
During beta-plus decay, a proton changes into a neutron.
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What fundamental particle transformation happens during beta-plus decay?
During beta-plus decay, a proton changes into a neutron.
Define gamma decay.
Gamma decay occurs when an excited nucleus decays to a lower energy state by emitting a photon.
A nucleus is in an excited state after ejecting an alpha particle. What type of decay will likely follow to reach a lower energy state?
Gamma decay will likely follow, where the excited nucleus emits a photon to decay to a lower, more stable energy state.
What particles are emitted during beta-minus decay?
An electron and an antineutrino are emitted from the nucleus during beta-minus decay.
What particle is emitted during gamma decay?
A photon is emitted during gamma decay as the nucleus transitions to a lower energy state.
Define beta-minus decay.
Beta-minus decay occurs when a neutron within a nucleus changes into a proton by emitting an electron and an antineutrino.
What is the principle of nucleon number conservation?
This principle states that the total number of protons and neutrons (the nucleon number) must be the same before and after a nuclear decay.
What three quantities are conserved in all nuclear decays?
In all nuclear decays, nucleon number (the number of neutrons and protons), lepton number (the number of electrons and neutrinos), and charge are conserved.
If a nucleus undergoes beta-minus decay, how does its nucleon number change?
The nucleon number does not change because one neutron is converted into one proton, keeping the total number of nucleons constant.
Define alpha decay.
Alpha decay is a process that occurs when a nucleus ejects an alpha particle.
What fundamental particle transformation happens during beta-minus decay?
During beta-minus decay, a neutron changes into a proton.
What particles are emitted during beta-plus decay?
A positron and a neutrino are emitted from the nucleus during beta-plus decay.
Under what circumstances does gamma decay typically occur?
Gamma decay often occurs after a nucleus has already undergone alpha or beta decay, leaving it in an excited state.
Define beta-plus decay.
Beta-plus decay occurs when a proton within a nucleus changes into a neutron by emitting a positron and a neutrino.