Chapter 30, Problem 14Q

To determine

Condition of energy levels of the atomic electrons when a nucleus undergoes beta decay.

Answer to Problem 14Q

Solution:

Energy levels change to become the energy levels of the new element and the photons are likely to be emitted from the atom as electrons change energies to occupy the new levels.

Explanation of Solution

When a nucleus undergoes either ß - or ß + decay, it will form a different element. New element will form when atomic number has changed. Since this beta decay converted either a neutron to a proton or a proton to a neutron. The energy levels of the electrons are dependent on atomic number; hence all energy levels of atomic electron change to become the energy levels of the new element.

The photons are likely to be emitted from the atom as electrons change energies to occupy the new levels.