Types of Nuclear Decay

Alpha Decay (α) Emission of an alpha (α) particle which is a Helium nuclide. During an alpha decay, a nucleus is able to reach a more stable state by allowing 2 protons and 2 neutrons to leave the nucleus

Alpha Decay (α) Formula:

Beta Decay (A) Beta Negative Decay ( 0 -1 β) - Neutron becomes a proton (which stays in the nucleus) and an electron that goes flying out (which is the beta particle) - Symbol: 0 -1 β - We take away (subtract) 0 +1 β from parent nuclide. - Equation:

Beta Decay - Examples:

Beta Decay - We take away (subtract) a 0 -1 β from the parent nuclide. - Examples:

Beta Decay (B) Beta Positive Decay ( 0 +1 β) - Emits a positron 0 +1 β which has the same mass of an electron but the charge is +1e. - Symbol: 0 +1 β - Equation:

Gamma Decay (ϒ) Is a form of an Electromagnetic Radiation (just like X-rays, microwave and radio waves) It can pass through dense matter. Can only be stopped by stuff like a few inches of lead. Happen most often after an alpha or a beta decay Equation: