Question

When an atom releases gamma radiation,
A. the mass number decreases by one.
B. the atomic number decreases by one.
C. the mass number increases by four.
D. the atomic number remains the same.

Answer 1

The answer is D. the atomic number remains the same.

Answer 2

Answer: The correct answer is Option D.

Explanation:

Gamma radiations are released when an atom undergoes gamma decay. During this decay process, a unstable nuclei gives off excess energy through a spontaneous electromagnetic process and it further releases $\gamma -radiations$. The radiations released does not carry any charge and hence are electrically neutral.

Atomic number of the  atom going this decay does not change.

$_Z^A\textrm{X}^*\rightarrow _Z^A\textrm{X}+_0^0\gamma$

Thus, the correct answer is Option D.