Alpha and Beta decay Flashcards
1
Q
What is an alpha particle?
A
a hydrogen atom. 4H2.
2
Q
What is a beta particle?
A
a fast-moving electron.
3
Q
how many neutrons and protons does an atom lose under alpha decay?
A
2 of each.
4
Q
what is the full equation for beta decay?
A
neutron (gives) proton + electron + anti-electron neutrino
5
Q
why is there a neutrino?
A
because there must be another particle due to missing momentum and energy.
