Alpha, Beta, Gamma Decay Definition, Types, Examples & Uses

Alpha, Beta, Gamma Decay

Subject: Chemistry

Book: General Chemistry

Alpha decay emits a helium nucleus (2 protons, 2 neutrons), beta decay converts a neutron to a proton (β–) or a proton to a neutron (β+), and gamma decay releases high-energy photons without altering the number of protons or neutrons. Each mode affects the nucleus differently and has distinct penetration abilities (alpha < beta < gamma). Shielding methods vary: paper for alpha, metal foil for beta, and dense materials like lead for gamma.