Multiple choice general knowledge science & technology

When radium (atomic number 88) emits an alpha particle, the resulting nucleus has atomic number.

  1. 92

  2. 90

  3. 88

  4. 86
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

Alpha particle emission involves losing 2 protons and 2 neutrons. Since atomic number equals proton count, losing 2 protons reduces the atomic number by 2. Radium (88) loses 2 protons, becoming radon (86).

Keep practicing — related questions