Question

which statement describes what is gained or lost during radioactive decay?
atoms gain other atoms.
elements take in energy.
atoms lose smaller particles.
elements gain smaller particles.

Explanation:

Radioactive decay is a process in which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by emitting radiation. During this process, atoms lose smaller particles (such as alpha particles, beta particles, etc.). Atoms do not gain other atoms in radioactive decay. Also, in radioactive decay, energy is released (not taken in by elements in the sense described in option B). And elements do not gain smaller particles in the way described in option D.

Answer:

Atoms lose smaller particles.