Topic explanation

Standard explanation

Alpha, beta and gamma are common forms of radiation associated with radioactive nuclear processes.

Key points

• ⁴₂He
• A → A−4
• Z → Z−2
• ᴬZX → ᴬ⁻⁴Z₋₂Y + ⁴₂He
• Alpha Radiation — α: An alpha particle is a helium-4 nucleus: ⁴₂He It contains: 2 protons; 2 neutrons; * charg
• Beta-Minus Radiation — β⁻: In beta-minus decay, a neutron in the nucleus transforms into a proton while an electron and an anti
• Alpha, beta and gamma differ in composition, charge, penetration and effect on the nucleus.

Labelled diagram