Radioactivity
Chapter Name : Nuclei |
Sub Topic Code : 101_12_13_06_03 |
Topic Name : Radioactivity |
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Sub Topic Name : Alpha Decay |
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Introduction
Alpha decay, or ?-decay, is a type of radioactive decay in which an atomic nucleus emits an alpha particle and thereby transforms (or 'decays') into an atom with a mass number 4 or less and atomic number 2 or less.
Pre-Requisites:
Radioactivity
Activity:
Matters in the universe.
Real Life Question:
What is Alpha Decay?
Key Words / FlashCards
| Key Words | Definitions (pref. in our own words) |
|---|---|
| Alpha Decay | Alpha decay, or ?-decay, is a type of radioactive decay in which an atomic nucleus emits an alpha particle and thereby transforms (or 'decays') into an atom with a mass number 4 or less and atomic number 2 or less. |
Learning aids / Gadgets
| Gadgets | How it can be used |
|---|---|
| Atom | Atom is a basic unit of matter that consists of a dense central nucleus surrounded by a cloud of negatively charged electrons. |
Real life uses :
Study of atoms.
Places to visit :
Atmosphere.
Practical examples around us
| Examples | Explainations |
|---|---|
| Nuclear fission | Nuclear fission is either a nuclear reaction or a radioactive decay process in which the nucleus of an atom splits into smaller parts (lighter nuclei). |
What you learn in Theory:
Alpha decay, or ?-decay, is a type of radioactive decay in which an atomic nucleus emits an alpha particle and thereby transforms (or 'decays') into an atom with a mass number 4 or less and atomic number 2 or less.
What you learn in Practice:
Alpha particles have a typical kinetic energy of 5 MeV (that is, ? 0.13% of their total energy, i.e. 110 TJ/kg) and a speed of 15,000 km/s.