alpha particle

noun

: a positively charged nuclear particle identical with the nucleus of a helium atom that consists of two protons and two neutrons and is ejected at high speed in certain radioactive transformations

called also alpha, alpha radiation, alpha ray

Examples of alpha particle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Compared to beta particles, alpha particles are larger and more energetic. Discover Magazine, 8 July 2024 Another key advantage of alpha particles is their limited travel distance. Discover Magazine, 8 July 2024 The most common forms occur when an unstable nucleus spits out an alpha particle, consisting of two neutrons and two protons, a beta particle consisting of an energetic positron or electron, or a gamma ray, consisting of a high energy photon. The Physics Arxiv Blog, Discover Magazine, 27 Feb. 2024 An alpha particle is made of two protons and two neutrons. WIRED, 8 Sep. 2023 See all Example Sentences for alpha particle 

Word History

First Known Use

1903, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of alpha particle was in 1903

Dictionary Entries Near alpha particle

Cite this Entry

“Alpha particle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alpha%20particle. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

alpha particle

noun
: a positively charged particle that is identical with the nucleus of a helium atom, consists of 2 protons and 2 neutrons, and is thrown at high speed from a radioactive atomic nucleus

Medical Definition

alpha particle

noun
: a positively charged nuclear particle identical with the nucleus of a helium atom that consists of two protons and two neutrons and is ejected at high speed in certain radioactive transformations

called also alpha, alpha ray

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