Physics (AS & A Level) · Oct / Nov 2019 · Paper 11 · Question 39

An unstable nucleus of an element decays by emitting an α-particle or a β⁻ particle to become a nucleus of a different element. This nucleus is also unstable and also emits an α-particle or a β⁻ particle. The process continues until an isotope of the original element is produced. What is the minimum possible number of these particles emitted?

1. A2
2. B3
3. C4
4. D5

As printed in the paper