Final answer:
Alpha decay conserves atomic and mass numbers, meaning the total number and type of nucleons remain unchanged. The process involves a parent nucleus, like uranium-238, decaying into a daughter nucleus, thorium-234, while emitting an alpha particle which is a helium nucleus.
Step-by-step explanation:
Alpha decay involves the transformation of one element into another and the emission of alpha particles. When a nucleus like uranium-238 undergoes alpha decay, it transforms into thorium-234 and emits an alpha particle (4He2). The decay can be represented by the nuclear equation: 238U92 \u2192 234Th90 + 4He2.
During this process, atomic and mass numbers are conserved. The mass number of the original nucleus decreases by four (the mass number of the alpha particle), and the atomic number decreases by two (the number of protons in the alpha particle). Thus, the total count of protons and neutrons – collectively known as nucleons – remains unchanged. This is a clear demonstration of the law of conservation in physics, ensuring that despite the transmutation into a different element, the number and types of atoms and nucleons are conserved.
It is also noteworthy that the conservation of total charge, linear and angular momentum, and total mass-energy are all observed in alpha decay, maintaining the fundamental principles of physics.