Alpha particles
Alpha particles
Alpha particles, also known as alpha rays or alpha radiation (IPA: /ˈælfə ˈpɑːrtɪkəl/), are a type of ionizing radiation consisting of two protons and two neutrons bound together into a particle identical to a helium nucleus. They are generally produced in the process of alpha decay, but may also be produced in other ways.
Etymology
The term "alpha particle" is derived from the first letter of the Greek alphabet, alpha (α). This is because they were the first type of radiation discovered, hence they were named after the first letter of the Greek alphabet.
Properties
Alpha particles are a highly ionizing form of particle radiation with a charge of +2 e and a mass of 4 u. They have low penetration depth and are stopped by a few centimeters of air or by the skin. However, if an alpha particle is ingested, it can be highly damaging.
Related terms
- Alpha decay: A type of radioactive decay in which an atomic nucleus emits an alpha particle and thereby transforms into an atom with a mass number 4 less and atomic number 2 less.
- Beta particle: High-energy, high-speed electrons or positrons emitted by certain types of radioactive nuclei in the process of beta decay.
- Gamma radiation: Penetrating electromagnetic radiation arising from the radioactive decay of atomic nuclei.
- Ionizing radiation: Radiation that carries enough energy to detach electrons from atoms or molecules, thereby ionizing them.
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Alpha particles
- Wikipedia's article - Alpha particles
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