Physics (AS & A Level) · May / June 2024 · Paper 11 · Question 38

A radioactive sample decays by emitting $\beta^{-}$ particles. The energy released in the decay process is the same for each nucleus that decays, but the $\beta^{-}$ particles emitted have a continuous range of kinetic energies. Which statement explains why the $\beta^{-}$ particles are emitted with a continuous range of kinetic energies?

1. ASome of the energy released is given to the remaining nucleons in the nucleus.
2. BSome of the energy released is taken by an emitted antineutrino.
3. CSome of the energy released is used to create the $\beta^{-}$ particle.
4. DSome of the energy released is used to create a new nucleon.

As printed in the paper