Difference between revisions of "Alpha Decay"
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| − | *[[Radium]]-226 [[Radioactive Decay|decays]] to [[radon]]-222 by emitting an [[alpha particle]]. | + | *[[Radium]]-226 [[Radioactive Decay|decays]] to [[radon]]-222 by emitting an [[Alpha Particle|alpha particle]]. |
| − | *Smoke detectors often use [[americium]]-241, which undergoes [[alpha decay]]. | + | *Smoke detectors often use [[americium]]-241, which undergoes [[Alpha Decay|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.