Multiple choice general knowledge science & technology

A helium nucleus being ejected from the nucleus of an atom can be referred to as:

  1. Alpha Decay

  2. Beta Decay

  3. Gamma Decay

  4. None Of these

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
A Correct answer
Explanation

Alpha decay occurs when a nucleus ejects a helium nucleus (2 protons and 2 neutrons) to become more stable. Beta decay involves electron or positron emission, while gamma decay releases only energy as electromagnetic radiation. The ejected helium particle is specifically called an alpha particle.