Question

What is an alpha particle made up of?

Answer 1

Understanding the concept of alpha particles:

• A composite particle comprised of two protons and two neutrons which are tightly bound together is known as an alpha particle (a).
• A doubly ionized helium atom, which has an atomic mass of four(two protons and two neutrons), is equivalent to the nucleus of an alpha particle.
• An alpha particle has a charge of +2 and can be written as ${\mathrm{He}}^{2+}$ since it lacks electrons to counteract the positive electrical charge of the two protons.
• Alpha particles are represented by $\alpha$ or ${\alpha }^{2+}$or ${\mathrm{He}}^{2+}$.
• The first type of nuclear radiation to be recognized was alpha particles, often known as alpha radiation or alpha rays.
• Beta particles & gamma rays followed shortly after.