select all the correct answers. if a uranium atom undergoes both alpha and gamma decay, what happens to it…

select all the correct answers. if a uranium atom undergoes both alpha and gamma decay, what happens to it? the nucleus loses neutrons. the nucleus loses positrons. the nucleus loses protons. the nucleus loses energy. the nucleus loses electrons.
Answer
Brief Explanations:
- In alpha - decay, an alpha particle ($_2^4He$) is emitted. An alpha particle consists of 2 protons and 2 neutrons. So, when a uranium atom undergoes alpha - decay, the nucleus loses 2 protons and 2 neutrons.
- In gamma - decay, a gamma ray (a form of electromagnetic radiation) is emitted. Gamma decay occurs when the nucleus is in an excited state, and it releases energy in the form of gamma rays to reach a more stable state. There is no change in the number of protons, neutrons, positrons, or electrons during gamma - decay.
Answer:
The nucleus loses neutrons. The nucleus loses protons. The nucleus loses energy.