Question

Define alpha particles and give some examples of it.

Answer 1

Alpha particles:

1. Alpha particles are particles that consist of two protons and two neutrons bound together into a particle identical to a helium-4 nucleus.
2. They are generally produced in the process of alpha decay, but may also be produced in other ways.
3. There is only one alpha particle, and that is the helium-4 nucleus.
4. Note that only the nucleus is given out, not the electrons, so an alpha particle always has a charge of +2, due to the presence of two protons.
5. Radionuclides such as uranium-238, radium-226, and other members of the naturally occurring uranium, thorium, and actinium decay series emit alpha particles, which are found in varying amounts in almost all rocks, soils, and water.