Alpha decay and beta decay
What is released during alpha decay?
Two protons and two neutrons
What happens to the atomic number of a nucleus undergoing alpha decay?
It decreases by 2
What particle is emitted during beta-minus decay?
An electron
During beta-plus decay, a proton is converted into:
A neutron and a positron
What change occurs in the mass number during beta decay?
It remains unchanged
Which type of decay emits helium nuclei?
Alpha decay
What is the typical charge of an alpha particle?
+2
What type of decay often follows immediately after beta decay?
Gamma decay
How does beta-minus decay affect the atomic number of a nucleus?
It increases by 1
Which force is primarily responsible for beta decay?
Weak nuclear force