alpha particle - definition - radiation and radioactivity

Definition: Many nuclear reactions involve the release of absorption of a Helium nucleus. In this context, the nucleus is known as (for historical reasons) an alpha particle. The release of an alpha particle is known as alpha decay. It consists of two protons and two neutrons, so it has a charge of +2e, where e is the charge of an electron.

Also Known As: alpha ray, alpha beam, helium nucleus

Common Misspellings: Alpher, Alfer, alfa, particel partical