Alpha and Beta Decay

Front

What is alpha decay?

Back

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

Front

What is beta decay?

Back

A type of radioactive decay in which a beta particle (an electron or positron) is emitted from an atomic nucleus, transforming a neutron into a proton or vice versa, changing the element's atomic number.

Front

What is gamma decay?

Back

A type of radioactive decay that involves the emission of gamma rays, which are high-energy photons, from an excited nucleus, without changing the atomic number or mass.

Front

What is the atomic number?

Back

The number of protons in the nucleus of an atom, which determines the element's identity.

Front

What is the mass number?

Back

The total number of protons and neutrons in an atomic nucleus.

Front

What is fission?

Back

The process of splitting a heavy atomic nucleus into smaller nuclei, accompanied by the release of energy.

Front

What is fusion?

Back

The process of combining two light atomic nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy.

Front

What is an alpha particle?

Back

A particle consisting of 2 protons and 2 neutrons, emitted during alpha decay.

Front

What is a beta particle?

Back

A high-energy, high-speed electron or positron emitted during beta decay.

Front

What is half-life?

Back

The time required for half of the radioactive atoms in a sample to decay.