Question

If a ${}_{20}^{41}Ca$ atom undergoes a $\beta$ emission, then the value of $Z$ isand $A$ isin the daughter nucleus.

• A. $21$
• B. $25$
• C. $42$
• D. $41$

Answer 1

Answer: (A), (D)

The correct options are
A $21$
D $41$

While emitting a $\beta$ - particle, the total number of nucleons in nucleus B remains the same but the number of neutrons is decreased by one and the number of protons is increased by one. Therefore, the Z of Ca will be increased by 1, while A will remain the same. The reaction is as follows:
$4120\mathrm{Ca}\to 4121\mathrm{Sc}+0-1e$
Calcium, after the beta emission, forms scandium ($\text{Sc}$).