Difference between revisions of "Alpha Decay"
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*Reduces the [[Atomic Number]] atomic number by 2 and the [[Atomic Mass|mass number]] by 4. | *Reduces the [[Atomic Number]] atomic number by 2 and the [[Atomic Mass|mass number]] by 4. | ||
*Common in heavy [[element]]s like [[uranium]] and [[radium]]. | *Common in heavy [[element]]s like [[uranium]] and [[radium]]. | ||
| − | *[[Alpha particles]] have low [[Penetration Depth|penetration depth]] but high ionizing power. | + | *[[Alpha Particle|Alpha particles]] have low [[Penetration Depth|penetration depth]] but high ionizing power. |
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===Examples=== | ===Examples=== | ||
*[[Radium]]-226 [[Decay (Physics)|decays]] to [[radon]]-222 by emitting an [[alpha particle]]. | *[[Radium]]-226 [[Decay (Physics)|decays]] to [[radon]]-222 by emitting an [[alpha particle]]. | ||
*Smoke detectors often use [[americium]]-241, which undergoes [[alpha decay]]. | *Smoke detectors often use [[americium]]-241, which undergoes [[alpha decay]]. | ||
Revision as of 17:01, 17 May 2024
Key Stage 5
Meaning
Alpha decay is a type of radioactive decay where an unstable nucleus emits an alpha particle consisting of two protons and two neutrons.
About Alpha Decay
- Reduces the Atomic Number atomic number by 2 and the mass number by 4.
- Common in heavy elements like uranium and radium.
- Alpha particles have low penetration depth but high ionizing power.
Examples
- Radium-226 decays to radon-222 by emitting an alpha particle.
- Smoke detectors often use americium-241, which undergoes alpha decay.