Why is an alpha particle written as a helium (He) nucleus?An alpha particle is a stable, nonreactive particle, like the noble gas helium. Helium is a common element that is often present in small forms; the alpha particle was misidentified in early scientific studies as helium. An alpha particle has two electrons, making it essentially an atom of helium. An alpha particle has two protons and two neutrons; the nucleus of a helium atom has two protons and two neutrons.

Alpha particle is produced in an alpha decay of radioactive elements like uranium. We are to find…

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Chemistry

10th Edition

ISBN:9781305957404

Author:Steven S. Zumdahl, Susan A. Zumdahl, Donald J. DeCoste

Publisher:Steven S. Zumdahl, Susan A. Zumdahl, Donald J. DeCoste

Chapter1: Chemical Foundations

Section: Chapter Questions

Problem 1RQ: Define and explain the differences between the following terms. a. law and theory b. theory and...

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Why is an alpha particle written as a helium (He) nucleus?

An alpha particle is a stable, nonreactive particle, like the noble gas helium.
Helium is a common element that is often present in small forms; the alpha particle was misidentified in early scientific studies as helium.
An alpha particle has two electrons, making it essentially an atom of helium.
An alpha particle has two protons and two neutrons; the nucleus of a helium atom has two protons and two neutrons.

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