1.2 Stable and Unstable Nuclei

Question 1

What is ALPHA DECAY?

Answer 1

where alpha particles are emitted from the nucleus of an atom

alpha particles consist of 2 protons and 2 neutrons

Question 2

What is BETA DECAY?

Answer 2

where a fast moving electron is emitted from a nucleus as a result of a neutron decaying into a proton

an anti-neutrino is created in the process to conserve mass and momentum

there are 2 types, positive and negative

Question 3

What is GAMMA DECAY?

Answer 3

is a form of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the nucleus as a result of alpha or beta decay