Question

When a nucleus in radioactive atom undergoes radioactive decay, the electronic energy levels of the atom:

• A. do not change for any type of radioactivity
• B. change for $\alpha$ and $\beta$-decay processes but not for $\gamma$-decay processes
• C. change for $\gamma$-decay process but not for $\alpha$ and $\beta$-decay processes
• D. change for all types of radioactivity

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

change for $\alpha$ and $\beta$-decay processes but not for $\gamma$-decay processes

Alpha and beta decay eject charged particles from the nucleus, altering its charge and its interactions with electrons, which in turn alter the electronic energy levels.

Whereas Gamma radiation leaves the nucleus charge unchanged, and the electronic levels are not affected,