Physics (AS & A Level) · Oct / Nov 2023 · Paper 13 · Question 39

When a sample of a radioactive isotope decays by α-particle emission, the α-particles emitted have a single discrete energy. When a sample of a radioactive isotope decays by β⁻ particle emission, the β⁻ particles emitted have a continuous range of energies. What is the explanation for this?

1. AAn antineutrino is emitted with a β⁻ particle but not with an α-particle.
2. BAn antineutrino is emitted with an α-particle but not with a β⁻ particle.
3. CThe α-particles have much more energy than the β⁻ particles.
4. DThe β⁻ particles have much more energy than the α-particles.

As printed in the paper