Question

which statement best describes alpha decay? (1 point) after the ejection of an alpha particle, the remaining nucleus has a mass number that is two less and an atomic number that is two less, so alpha decay is a type of nuclear fission. after the ejection of an alpha particle, the remaining nucleus has a mass number that is four less and an atomic number that is two less, so alpha decay is not a type of nuclear fission. after the ejection of an alpha particle, the remaining nucleus has a mass number that is two less and an atomic number that is two less, so alpha decay is not a type of nuclear fission. after the ejection of an alpha particle, the remaining nucleus has a mass number that is four less and an atomic number that is two less, so alpha decay is a type of nuclear fission.

Explanation:

Alpha decay is a type of radioactive decay. An alpha - particle is a helium - 4 nucleus with 2 protons and 2 neutrons. When a nucleus undergoes alpha decay, it emits an alpha - particle. The atomic number of the remaining nucleus is two less (because an alpha - particle has 2 protons) and the mass number is four less (since an alpha - particle has 4 nucleons: 2 protons and 2 neutrons). Also, alpha decay is not nuclear fission. Nuclear fission involves the splitting of a heavy nucleus into two or more smaller nuclei.

Answer:

After the ejection of an alpha particle, the remaining nucleus has a mass number that is four less and an atomic number that is two less, so alpha decay is not a type of nuclear fission.