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Question

Why are alpha particles emitted?


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Solution

Alpha particles:

  • Alpha particles are particles that consist of two protons and two neutrons bound together into a particle identical to a helium-4 nucleus.
  • Representation of alpha particle

α→He24

Emission of alpha particles:

  • The nuclei whose n/p ratio lies above the stability belt are unstable and are radioactive.
  • These radioactive elements emit the alpha and beta particles to form stable nuclei and this process is known as radioactivity.
  • Generally, the high atomic number elements like Uranium(U), Radium(Ra), and Thorium(Th) undergo alpha decay.

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