Question

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?

Answer 1

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!!