In nuclear decay, does the nucleus lose mass when emitting gamma radiation?

I know that mass is lost during alpha and beta decay, but what about gamma?

1 Answer
Nov 2, 2017

Only a truly tiny amount, as E = m.c^2

Explanation:

A gamma ray of 5 MeV (fairly typical) carries about 8xx10^-13 J of energy.

That is equivalent to about 10^-29 kg or 0.01% of a typical nucleus’ mass.

NB not used a calculator! Just an estimate!!