CUET · PHYSICS · PYQ PAPER 2023

A nucleus captures two neutrons. Which of the following gives the changes in the proton number and nucleon number of the nucleus?

A Proton number: No change, Nucleon number: No change
B Proton number: No change, Nucleon number: Increases by 2
C Proton number: No change, Nucleon number: Increases by 2
D Proton number: Increases by 2, Nucleon number: No change

Verified Solution

Answer & Solution

Correct Answer

(C) Proton number: No change, Nucleon number: Increases by 2

Step-by-step Solution

Detailed explanation

Neutrons are electrically neutral, so capturing them does not change the number of protons (atomic number). However, since the nucleon number is the sum of protons and neutrons, adding two neutrons increases the total mass by exactly 2. Proton number: No change Nucleon number:…

Apply the relevant identity from the chapter and substitute the values established in the previous step, keeping the original constraint in view.

Use the simplified expression to isolate the unknown, then plug the result back into the question setup to confirm the working is internally consistent.

Cross-check against a boundary or limiting case. Both the dimensional balance and the qualitative behaviour at the extreme should agree with the candidate answer.

Combine the steps above to identify the correct option. The remaining choices each fail at least one of the consistency, dimensional, or boundary checks.

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