Which of the following processes result in an increase in the atomic number of a nuclide?

Options

A. `alpha`-emission
B. electron capture
C. `gamma`-emission
D. `beta`-(Beta) emission

Answer

To determine which of the given processes results in an increase in the atomic number of a nuclide, we need to analyze each option provided:

1. **Alpha Emission**: In this process, an alpha particle (which consists of 2 protons and 2 neutrons) is emitted from the nucleus. This results in a decrease in the atomic number by 2, as the nucleus loses 2 protons. Therefore, alpha emission does not increase the atomic number.

2. **Electron Capture**: In electron capture, an electron from the inner shell is captured by the nucleus, where it combines with a proton to form a neutron. This process decreases the atomic number by 1, as one proton is converted into a neutron. Hence, electron capture does not increase the atomic number.

3. **Gamma Emission**: Gamma emission involves the release of gamma radiation from a nucleus. This process does not change the number of protons or neutrons in the nucleus, so the atomic number remains the same. Therefore, gamma emission does not increase the atomic number.

4. **Beta Emission**: In beta emission (or beta decay), a neutron in the nucleus is transformed into a proton, and an electron (beta particle) is emitted. This process results in an increase in the atomic number by 1, as the number of protons in the nucleus increases.

Based on the analysis of each process, the only process that results in an increase in the atomic number of a nuclide is:

**Answer: Beta Emission**