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Alpha particles, also referred to as α-rays, are known for causing significant ionisation in gases they traverse and are readily stopped by materials. Which statement about alpha particles is accurate?

1. Atomic hydrogen is inherently unstable and exists for only a very brief duration.
2. Alpha particles are the nuclei of helium atoms, consisting of two protons and two neutrons, and are released from the nuclei of specific radioactive elements.
3. Streams of alpha particles, known as α-rays, generate strong ionisation in gases and are quickly absorbed by substances.
4. The release of one alpha particle reduces the atomic number by 2 and the mass number by 4, while the emission of two beta particles increases the atomic number by 2. Together, this results in a net decrease of 4 in the mass number.

Correct answer: Alpha particles are the nuclei of helium atoms, consisting of two protons and two neutrons, and are released from the nuclei of specific radioactive elements.

Solution

Option B correctly describes alpha particles as the nuclei of ionized helium atoms, containing two protons and two neutrons, emitted by certain radioactive substances. This aligns with the properties of alpha particles.

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