Problem 20 - Chemistry: The Central Science

Question

Give the symbol for (a) a neutron, (b) an alpha particle, (c) gamma radiation.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The symbols are: (a) Neutron: \( n^0 \), (b) Alpha particle: \( \alpha \) or \( ^4_2He \), (c) Gamma radiation: \( \gamma \).

Step 1: (a) Neutron Symbol

A neutron is a subatomic particle found in the nucleus of an atom. It has no electric charge and a mass slightly larger than that of a proton. The symbol for a neutron is: \( n^0 \)

Step 2: (b) Alpha Particle Symbol

An alpha particle is a type of ionizing radiation emitted by some radioactive substances during alpha decay. It consists of two protons and two neutrons, making it essentially a helium-4 nucleus. The symbol for an alpha particle is: \( \alpha \) or \( ^4_2He \)

Step 3: (c) Gamma Radiation Symbol

Gamma radiation is a type of ionizing electromagnetic radiation emitted by some radioactive substances during gamma decay. It is usually represented by the Greek letter gamma. The symbol for gamma radiation is: \( \gamma \)