Types of Radioactive decay

Front

What is alpha decay?

Back

A type of radioactive decay where an atomic nucleus emits an alpha particle, consisting of 2 protons and 2 neutrons, resulting in a new element.

Front

What is beta decay?

Back

A type of radioactive decay in which a nucleus emits a beta particle, which is an electron or positron, leading to a change in the number of protons in the nucleus.

Front

What is gamma decay?

Back

A type of radioactive decay that involves the release of gamma rays, which are high-energy electromagnetic waves, without changing the number of protons or neutrons in the nucleus.

Front

What is a radioactive isotope?

Back

An isotope of an element that is unstable and can undergo radioactive decay.

Front

What is transmutation in nuclear chemistry?

Back

The process by which one element is converted into another through changes in the nucleus, typically involving the gain or loss of protons.

Front

What particle is emitted during alpha decay?

Back

An alpha particle, which consists of 2 protons and 2 neutrons.

Front

What particle is emitted during beta decay?

Back

A beta particle, which is an electron or positron.

Front

What is the significance of half-life in radioactive decay?

Back

Half-life is the time required for half of the radioactive atoms in a sample to decay, indicating the stability and rate of decay of the isotope.

Front

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

Back

Alpha decay decreases the atomic number by 2, resulting in the formation of a new element.

Front

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

Back

Beta decay increases the atomic number by 1, resulting in the formation of a new element.