What can the nucleus emit during radioactive decay?

There are three possible emissions from a nucleus decaying radioactively. The first is the emission of an alpha particle. Alpha particles consist of neutrons and protons. Secondly a beta particle can be released. Often a beta particle is an electron (a small negative charge) but it can also be a positron (a small positive charge). Finally during any radioactive decay gamma radiation (in the form of gamma waves) can be released. All these forms of radioactive decay help the original radioactive substance reach a more stable state.

Answered by Samuel K. Physics tutor

8218 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

A 15kg cannonball and a 1kg football are dropped to the ground from a height of 10 metres. Calculate the speed of the cannonball and of the football just before they hit the ground (you may ignore air resistance).


Explain how red-shift provides evidence for the Big Bang theory.


A car travelling at 14 m/s has to make an emergency stop so applies the brakes and it takes 1.5s to become stationary. What distance has the van travelled in that time?


On a pirate ship, a 1.6m plank is held at one end to the ship. A 65kg pirate walks the plank with his 1.1kg parrot following 40cm behind him. What is the total clockwise moment acting on the plank when the pirate reaches the end of it?


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