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The release of one alpha particle lowers the atomic number by 2 and the mass number by 4. Meanwhile, the release of two beta particles raises the atomic number by 2. Therefore, the combined effect of emitting one alpha particle and two beta particles results in a reduction of the mass number by 4.

1. Atomic hydrogen is unstable and exists for only a fraction of a second.
2. Alpha particles are the nuclei of ionized helium atoms, consisting of two protons and two neutrons, and are emitted by certain radioactive materials.
3. Alpha particle streams, known as alpha rays, cause strong ionization in gases and are readily absorbed by substances.
4. The release of one alpha particle lowers the atomic number by 2 and the mass number by 4. Meanwhile, the release of two beta particles raises the atomic number by 2. Therefore, the combined effect of emitting one alpha particle and two beta particles results in a reduction of the mass number by 4.

Correct answer: The release of one alpha particle lowers the atomic number by 2 and the mass number by 4. Meanwhile, the release of two beta particles raises the atomic number by 2. Therefore, the combined effect of emitting one alpha particle and two beta particles results in a reduction of the mass number by 4.

Solution

The emission of 1α particle decreases the atomic number by 2 and the mass number by 4, while the emission of 2β particles increases the atomic number by 2 without affecting the mass number. Thus, the net effect is a decrease in the mass number by 4, as described in option D.

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