Question

question: how does alpha decay change the nucleus of a radioactive atom? predict. as you observed in the warm - up activity, an alpha particle consists of two protons and two neutrons. how will the emission of an alpha particle affect the following? a. the atomic number of the atom: b. the mass number of the atom:

Explanation:

An alpha - particle is composed of 2 protons and 2 neutrons. When an atom undergoes alpha - decay and emits an alpha - particle, the atomic number (number of protons) decreases by 2 and the mass number (sum of protons and neutrons) decreases by 4.

Answer:

A. The atomic number of the atom decreases by 2.
B. The mass number of the atom decreases by 4.