Radioactive decay particles

Front

What is radioactive decay?

Back

Radioactive decay is the process by which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by emitting radiation.

Front

What are the main types of radioactive decay?

Back

The main types of radioactive decay are alpha decay, beta decay (which includes beta minus and beta plus), and gamma decay.

Front

What is an alpha particle?

Back

An alpha particle is a type of radiation consisting of 2 protons and 2 neutrons, equivalent to a helium nucleus.

Front

What is a beta minus particle?

Back

A beta minus particle is an electron emitted from a nucleus during beta minus decay.

Front

What is a beta plus particle?

Back

A beta plus particle is a positron emitted from a nucleus during beta plus decay.

Front

What happens during alpha decay?

Back

During alpha decay, the nucleus loses 2 protons and 2 neutrons, resulting in a new element.

Front

What happens during beta minus decay?

Back

During beta minus decay, a neutron in the nucleus is converted into a proton, emitting an electron.

Front

What happens during beta plus decay?

Back

During beta plus decay, a proton in the nucleus is converted into a neutron, emitting a positron.

Front

What is gamma radiation?

Back

Gamma radiation is high-energy electromagnetic radiation emitted from a nucleus, often following alpha or beta decay.

Front

What is the effect of alpha decay on atomic number?

Back

Alpha decay decreases the atomic number by 2.