What type of radioactive decay reduces the mass number of a nucleus? Explain how it works.

Alpha radiation reduces the mass number of an atom by 4. When an atom's nucleus is unstably large, it emits an alpha particle which consists of two neutrons and two protons. This is called alpha decay. Since both neutrons and protons have a mass of 1, the mass of the nucleus is reduced by the number of neutrons and protons that were emitted, which is 4.

Answered by Francis B. Physics tutor

1673 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

A boy with a mass of 50kg is sitting on a seesaw. He is sitting 2m from the pivot. He has a friend who weighs 40kg, how far away from the pivot must she sit to balance the seesaw? (gravitational accelleration (g) = 10m/s2)


Can you explain the difference between distance and displacement


Why do airbags make a car safer


A student investigated how the resistance of a piece of nichrome wire varies box with length.Describe how the student would obtain the data needed for the investigation. Your answer should include a risk assessment for one hazard in the investigation.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences