How It Works: The Mechanism of Each Decay
Part of Radioactive Decay — GCSE Physics
This how it works covers How It Works: The Mechanism of Each Decay within Radioactive Decay for GCSE Physics. Revise Radioactive Decay in Atomic Structure for GCSE Physics with 13 exam-style questions and 6 flashcards. This topic appears regularly enough that it should still be part of a steady revision cycle. It is section 6 of 14 in this topic. Use this how it works to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Topic position
Section 6 of 14
Practice
13 questions
Recall
6 flashcards
⚙️ How It Works: The Mechanism of Each Decay
Alpha decay occurs in very large, heavy nuclei (like uranium). The nucleus is so large that the strong nuclear force cannot hold it together effectively. Emitting an alpha particle (helium-4 nucleus) reduces the size of the nucleus significantly, making the remaining nucleus more stable.
Beta decay occurs when a nucleus has too many neutrons relative to its protons. A neutron is converted into a proton via the weak nuclear force interaction: n → p + e⁻ + antineutrino. The emitted electron (beta particle) and an antineutrino carry away the excess energy.
Gamma emission occurs when a nucleus is in an excited energy state after alpha or beta decay. The nucleus releases this excess energy as a high-energy photon (gamma ray). No change in nucleon numbers occurs — the nucleus simply loses energy and drops to a lower energy state.