Types of Nuclear Decays

Front

What is gamma decay?

Back

Gamma decay is a type of nuclear decay that involves the emission of gamma rays, which are fast-moving electromagnetic radiation.

Front

What is beta decay?

Back

Beta decay is a type of nuclear decay that involves the emission of a fast-moving electron.

Front

What is positron emission?

Back

Positron emission is a type of nuclear decay that involves the emission of a positive electron (positron).

Front

What is electron capture?

Back

Electron capture is a type of nuclear decay that involves the absorption of an electron into the nucleus, resulting in the release of an electron neutrino.

Front

What is alpha decay?

Back

Alpha decay is a type of nuclear decay in which an atomic nucleus emits an alpha particle, consisting of 2 protons and 2 neutrons, which is equivalent to a helium-4 nucleus.

Front

What are the main types of nuclear decay?

Back

The main types of nuclear decay are alpha decay, beta decay, gamma decay, positron emission, and electron capture.

Front

What is an alpha particle?

Back

An alpha particle is a type of particle emitted during alpha decay, consisting of 2 protons and 2 neutrons.

Front

How does beta decay affect the atomic number of an element?

Back

In beta decay, the atomic number of an element increases by 1 due to the emission of a beta particle (electron).

Front

What happens to the mass number during alpha decay?

Back

During alpha decay, the mass number of the original nucleus decreases by 4.

Front

What is the role of an electron neutrino in electron capture?

Back

In electron capture, the electron neutrino is released as a byproduct when an electron is absorbed into the nucleus.