Question

How can we determine the alpha decay?

Answer 1

To answer this question we should be aware of the whole concept of radioactive decay in specific to alpha decay. It occurs in heavy elements like radium, uranium, thorium etc.

Complete step by step answer:
- The radioactive decay in which the atomic nucleus emits alpha particles form new atomic nuclei. The alpha particles that are emitted are also called as helium nucleus as the helium is ejected out as alpha particles. The helium particles have two nucleons and four protons. It is relatively large and possesses positive charge. The atomic mass of the newly formed atom will be reduced by four and the atomic number is reduced by two.
Alpha decay is represented as follows:
${}_{Z}^{A}X\to {}_{(Z-4)}^{(A-4)}B+{}_{2}^{4}He$
Here, X is the parent nucleus with nucleons Z and protons A. He is the alpha particle that has been released. B is the daughter nucleus.
The newly formed atom is known as daughter nucleus.
This type of radioactive decay occurs in very heavy elements like uranium, radium and thorium.
- Let's know about penetration power,
Penetration power is the ability of the radiation that is emitted can pass through the matter.
Greater the ionizing power, lower is the penetrating power. The penetrating power of alpha rays are low which means that the ionizing power of alpha rays are greater. The alpha rays are also known as doubly ionized helium nuclei.
- Thus, from the above discussion we can conclude that, the number of nucleons and protons reduced and the helium ejected signifies that it is alpha decay or not.

Note: Beta decay is a type of radioactive decay where the nucleus emits beta particles which can be positron or electrons. Gamma decay is a type of radioactive where the nucleus emits gamma rays which is an electromagnetic radiation. In case of alpha decay, helium is emitted as alpha particles which is a biggest clue to find an alpha decay reaction.