Atoms emit α particles when they undergo alpha decay, which occurs when the nucleus of an atom has too many protons and neutrons, making it unstable. The alpha particle, also known as a helium nucleus, is released to reduce the number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus, making it more stable.
Atoms emit β+ particles, also known as positrons, when they undergo beta plus decay. This occurs when a proton in the nucleus transforms into a neutron, releasing a positron and a neutrino. This process helps to stabilize the nucleus by reducing the number of protons.
Atoms emit β- particles, also known as electrons, when they undergo beta minus decay. This happens when a neutron in the nucleus transforms into a proton, releasing an electron and an antineutrino. This process helps to stabilize the nucleus by reducing the number of neutrons.
The type of particle emitted by an atom is determined by the ratio of protons to neutrons in the nucleus. If the nucleus has too many protons, it will emit α or β+ particles to reduce the number of protons. If it has too many neutrons, it will emit β- particles to reduce the number of neutrons. This helps to balance the ratio and make the nucleus more stable.
Yes, atoms can emit more than one type of particle in a process called multiple decay. This often occurs when the nucleus is very unstable and needs to release multiple particles to become more stable. For example, an atom may emit an α particle and a β- particle simultaneously to achieve a more balanced ratio of protons to neutrons.