What can the nucleus emit during radioactive decay?

There are three possible emissions from a nucleus decaying radioactively. The first is the emission of an alpha particle. Alpha particles consist of neutrons and protons. Secondly a beta particle can be released. Often a beta particle is an electron (a small negative charge) but it can also be a positron (a small positive charge). Finally during any radioactive decay gamma radiation (in the form of gamma waves) can be released. All these forms of radioactive decay help the original radioactive substance reach a more stable state.