how is the atomic number of a nucleus changed by gamma decay


how is the atomic number of a nucleus changed by gamma decay

The atomic number of nuclide that undergoes gamma radioactive decay does not change. Gamma ray does not contain particle or mass, therefore its emission does not contribute to any lost of particle by the atom. ( unlike alpha that lead to loss of four nucleons and beta that lead to lost or gain of proton or neutron).  Gamma rays are only electromagnetic radiations, we can say that their emission will result to loss of energy by the atom; atomic number as well as the atomic mass remain unchanged.

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