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alpha particle
noun
, Physics.
- a positively charged particle consisting of two protons and two neutrons, emitted in radioactive decay or nuclear fission; the nucleus of a helium atom.
alpha particle
noun
- a helium-4 nucleus, containing two neutrons and two protons, emitted during some radioactive transformations
alpha particle
- A positively charged particle that consists of two protons and two neutrons bound together. It is emitted by an atomic nucleus undergoing radioactive decay and is identical to the nucleus of a helium atom. Because of their relatively large mass, alpha particles are the slowest and least penetrating forms of nuclear radiation. They can be stopped by a piece of paper.
- See more at radioactive decay
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Word History and Origins
Origin of alpha particle1
First recorded in 1900–05
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Example Sentences
Mercury 203 plus an alpha particle gives nice, stable Lead 207.
From Project Gutenberg
An alpha particle is the nucleus of a helium atom and is made up of two protons and two neutrons; it carries two positive charges.
From Project Gutenberg
There can thus be no doubt that the alpha particle becomes a helium atom when its positive charge is neutralized.
From Project Gutenberg
This stopping power of an atom for an alpha particle is approximately proportional to the square root of its atomic weight.
From Project Gutenberg
Ionium expels an alpha particle and becomes radium, which is a bivalent element resembling barium belonging to the second group.
From Project Gutenberg
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