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Name three kinds of radioactive decay and provide the symbol for each that is used to represent the product given off.

i. α – decay
ii. β – decay
iii. γ – decay

1 Answer

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Answer:

Explanation: i. α - Decay (Alpha Decay):

Symbol for the emitted particle: α

Description: In alpha decay, an atomic nucleus emits an alpha particle, which consists of two protons and two neutrons. This results in the original nucleus losing two protons and two neutrons, causing a decrease in both atomic number and atomic mass.

ii. β - Decay (Beta Decay):

Symbols for the emitted particles: β- (beta-minus) and β+ (beta-plus)

Description: In beta decay, there are two types: beta-minus (β-) decay and beta-plus (β+) decay.

In beta-minus decay, a neutron in the nucleus transforms into a proton, an electron (also known as a beta-minus particle), and an antineutrino.

In beta-plus decay, a proton in the nucleus transforms into a neutron, a positron (also known as a beta-plus particle), and a neutrino.

iii. γ - Decay (Gamma Decay):

Symbol for the emitted particle: γ (gamma)

Description: Gamma decay involves the emission of a gamma-ray photon. Unlike alpha and beta decay, gamma decay does not involve the emission of particles with mass. Instead, it releases high-energy photons (gamma rays) as the nucleus transitions to a lower energy state. Gamma rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation.

These different types of radioactive decay play a crucial role in the natural processes of nuclear stability and transformation.

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