Atomic Decay: Charged Element After Alpha Helium Release?

In summary, when an atom undergoes atomic decay and releases an (Alpha) Helium nucleus, the remaining atom changes to a new element with 2 less Proton Numbers. It is unclear whether this new element is charged, as the fate of the electrons is uncertain. However, it is likely that the alpha particle will eventually pick up two electrons and transform into a helium gas atom.
  • #1
WARLORDTF
31
0
In atomic decay, when an atom decays and releases the (Alpha) Helium nucleus, the atom left behind changes to the element 2 Proton Numbers prior. So is this new element charged? because the electrons stay behind, or do they go? and if so, where to and how?
 
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  • #2
WARLORDTF said:
In atomic decay, when an atom decays and releases the (Alpha) Helium nucleus, the atom left behind changes to the element 2 Proton Numbers prior. So is this new element charged? because the electrons stay behind, or do they go? and if so, where to and how?

I'd like to know the answer to this, too! :smile:

Answer, someone? :rolleyes:
 
  • #3
I am assuming that the nucleus of the new element cannot hold on to the two electrons for very long.As the alpha particle travels through matter there is continual ionisation of atoms followed by electron recombination two of these electrons,presumably,coming from the parent atom.It all balances in the end because at the end of its range when the alpha particle has lost so much energy that it is no longer able to ionise it will pick up two electrons and change to a helium gas atom.
 

Related to Atomic Decay: Charged Element After Alpha Helium Release?

1. What is atomic decay?

Atomic decay is the process by which an unstable atom transforms into a more stable atom by releasing energy in the form of radiation.

2. What is an alpha particle?

An alpha particle is a type of radiation that is released during atomic decay. It consists of two protons and two neutrons and has a positive charge.

3. How does an atom become charged after releasing an alpha particle?

When an alpha particle is released during atomic decay, the atom loses two protons and two neutrons. This results in a decrease in the number of electrons, causing the atom to become positively charged.

4. What is the role of helium in atomic decay?

Helium is the element that is formed after an alpha particle is released during atomic decay. It is formed when two protons and two neutrons combine together.

5. How is atomic decay related to radioactivity?

Atomic decay is a form of radioactivity, as it involves the release of radiation from an unstable atom. This radiation can be in the form of alpha, beta, or gamma particles.

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