Alpha, beta, and gamma particles are subatomic particles involved in different types of radioactive decay. Here's a brief explanation of each particle:
Alpha particles (α): Alpha particles are made up of two protons and two neutrons, essentially forming a helium nucleus. They have a positive charge of +2 and a mass of approximately four atomic mass units (AMU). Alpha decay occurs when a nucleus emits an alpha particle, reducing its atomic number by 2 and its mass number by 4. This type of decay is common in heavy, unstable nuclei.
Beta particles (β): Beta particles can be either electrons (β-) or positrons (β+). Beta-minus decay (β-) involves the emission of an electron from the nucleus, while beta-plus decay (β+) involves the emission of a positron, which is the antiparticle of an electron. Beta decay occurs when a neutron in the nucleus is converted into a proton (β-) or when a proton is converted into a neutron (β+), accompanied by the emission of a beta particle. Beta decay changes the atomic number of the nucleus while leaving the mass number unchanged.
Gamma particles (γ): Gamma particles, or gamma rays, are high-energy photons of electromagnetic radiation. Unlike alpha and beta particles, gamma particles do not consist of discrete particles with mass or charge. Instead, they are a form of electromagnetic radiation emitted by a nucleus undergoing a transition from an excited state to a lower energy state. Gamma rays have no charge and no mass, but they possess high energy and can penetrate matter. They are typically emitted along with alpha or beta particles during radioactive decay, helping the nucleus reach a more stable state.
In summary, alpha particles are helium nuclei consisting of two protons and two neutrons, beta particles are either electrons or positrons emitted during nuclear transformations, and gamma particles are high-energy photons of electromagnetic radiation emitted during nuclear transitions. Each of these particles plays a role in different types of radioactive decay processes.