An alpha particle is also referred to as a nucleus of which isotope?
All large radioactive atoms decay into smaller atoms by
releasing alpha particles. Each alpha particle has 2
protons, 2 neutrons, and electrons. The table below
describes several neutral, low-mass atoms.
Stable Isotopes of Low-Mass Elements
Element Name Symbol Atomic Number of
Number Neutrons
Hydrogen H
1
0
Helium
He
2
2
Lithium
Li
3
4
Beryllium
Be 4
5
O lithium-7
O helium-4
O hydrogen-2
O helium-2