Learning objective

Recognize that during alpha (α) or beta (β) decay, the nucleus transforms into that of a different element.

Read the explanation, check the common trap, then practise with flashcards and questions.

Exam focus

Cambridge IGCSE PhysicsNuclear physicsCore content

Study support

Understand this objective

Quick explanation

This point belongs to Radioactive decay, especially Radioactive decay outcomes.
You need to be able to recognize that during alpha (α) or beta (β) decay, the nucleus transforms into that of a different element.
The key ideas to know are State.
Use the linked flashcards and practice questions to check recall, then practise applying the idea in an exam-style answer.

Key concepts

State

Why it matters

This objective helps connect Radioactive decay outcomes to exam-style questions, flashcards, and revision notes for Radioactive decay.

Revision tools

Flashcards10 linked cards

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Practice Questions7 linked questions

Question 1 of 7

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0 of 5 attempted

Paper 3Theory (Core)1 marks

Description

Alpha decay reduces the atomic number by 2 and mass number by 4. Beta decay increases the atomic number by 1 without changing the mass number.

a
State the change in atomic number during alpha decay.
Your answer
Aim for approximately 1 distinct marking point.
[1]

Revision notestopic notes

Open the full topic revision notes when you are ready to review this objective in context.

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