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Alpha particle - (helium nucleus) with a positive charge Beta particle (high speed electron) with a negative charge Gamma ray (electromagnetic radiation) with no charge Radio active decay occurs because the nucleus is unstable. It depends on the particular atom which decay path it will take. A stable atom normally has a few more neutrons than protons. If there are one or two extra neutrons, but not enough to make it stable, getting rid of two of each will slightly increase the proportion of neutrons making it just a little more stable. In this case ALPHA radiation is the result. This consists of helium nuclei with two protons and two neutrons. If there are too many neutrons, one can turn into a proton. When this happens an electron must come into existence by being ejected from the neutron. This is called BETA radiation. If there are too many protons, one of them can eject a positron (positively charged electron) and turn into a neutron. The positron will then very quickly unite with an electron. When this happens they annihilate each other and become very high energy photon (light particle/wave) called a GAMMA ray. This happens mostly in nuclear reactors or in bombs. An example of beta (electron emission) radiation is when Radium 225 loses an electron and turns into Actinium 225 (half life 14.8 days). An example of alpha radiation is when the resulting Actinium loses a helium nuclei or alpha particle to become Francium 221. (half life 10 days) During these processes, other particle called neutrinos are also formed just as they are in the sun. For more about particles check related links below

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Related Questions

What radioactive emissions are not particles?

Gamma rays.


What is the name for the emission of rays and particles by a radioactive material?

The name for the emissions of rays and particles by a radioactive material are called radioactive decay. There are many different types of radioactive decay that emit different rays and particles.


What is primarily released in radioactive decay?

Particles or electromagnetic waves


What particles or energy comes out of the nucleus?

The nucleus of an atom can emit several types of particles and energy during processes such as radioactive decay. Common emissions include alpha particles (helium nuclei), beta particles (electrons or positrons), and gamma rays (high-energy photons). These emissions occur as the nucleus transitions to a more stable state, releasing energy in the process. This phenomenon is a key aspect of nuclear reactions and radioactive decay.


Is a proton a radioactive emission?

Oh honey, a proton is about as radioactive as a teddy bear. Protons are stable particles found in the nucleus of an atom, not some wild emission causing havoc. So, no need to worry about those little guys causing any radioactive chaos.


What are radioactive emission and how are most humans exposed to them?

Radioactive emissions are particles or energy released from unstable atoms. Most humans are exposed to radioactive emissions through natural sources like the sun and radon gas, as well as medical procedures like X-rays and radiation therapy. Other sources include nuclear power plants, food, and consumer products.


What is a substance that gives off high-energy particles or rays?

Radioactive material is a substance that gives off high-energy particles or rays, such as alpha, beta, or gamma radiation, due to its unstable atomic structure. These emissions can pose health risks if not handled properly.


What type of gas does uranium let out?

Uranium primarily emits alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays as it undergoes radioactive decay. These emissions can ionize air molecules and create potentially harmful effects on living organisms. Proper precautions and safety measures are necessary when handling uranium or its radioactive decay products.


What is meant by the word radioactive?

emits radioactive particles.


What elements that emit atomic particles are called?

Elements that emit atomic particles are typically referred to as radioactive elements. These elements undergo radioactive decay and emit particles such as alpha particles, beta particles, or gamma rays as they try to become more stable.


Which radioactive emissions is not a particle Alpha Neutron or Gamma?

Gamma.


What are the radioactive emissions that have the greatest penetrating power?

Gamma rays