What type of radioactive decay reduces the mass number of a nucleus? Explain how it works.

Alpha radiation reduces the mass number of an atom by 4. When an atom's nucleus is unstably large, it emits an alpha particle which consists of two neutrons and two protons. This is called alpha decay. Since both neutrons and protons have a mass of 1, the mass of the nucleus is reduced by the number of neutrons and protons that were emitted, which is 4.

FB

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

How fast are geostationary satellites moving?


Trolley A carrying mass 10kg is moving at speed 5m/s, and collides with stationary Trolley B carrying a mass 5kg. Indicating which Law you would apply, what is the speed and direction of Trolley B if Trolley A's resulting movement is 2m/s to the left?


Name and describe both of Kirchhoff's laws.


A lamp has a rating of 18V 9W. How much energy is transferred to the bulb in 5 minutes? Calculate the current through it when connected to a 18V supply.