Nuclear equations

• Alpha decay example:

  U → Th + He

  234 230 4 mass number

  92 90 2 atomic number

  An alpha particle can be represented as He as it has the same mass number and atomic number
• Alpha decay is represented by:

  He or α
• Gamma ray example:

  Th → Th + energy

  234 234

  90 90
• Beta decay example:

  C → N + e or β

  14 14 mass number

  6 7 atomic number, a proton is gained
• Gamma decay is represented by:

  γ
• Radioactive decay

  A) Alpha decay

  B) Beta decay

  C) Gamma decay

  
• Beta decay

  A) 0 , -1

  B) 0, -1

  
• Gamma decay doesn't cause a change in mass or atomic number