alpha ray

noun Physics.

a stream of alpha particles.
Also called alpha radiation.

Origin of alpha ray

First recorded in 1900–05

Words nearby alpha ray

alpha iron, alpha male, alpha particle, alpha privative, alpha radiation, alpha ray, alpha receptor, alpha rhythm, alpha stock, alpha test, alpha wave

British Dictionary definitions for alpha radiation (1 of 2)

alpha radiation

noun

alpha particles emitted from a radioactive isotope

British Dictionary definitions for alpha radiation (2 of 2)

alpha ray

noun

ionizing radiation consisting of a stream of alpha particles

Medical definitions for alpha radiation

alpha ray

n.

A stream of alpha particles or a single high-speed alpha particle.

Scientific definitions for alpha radiation

alpha ray

A stream of alpha particles.

Cultural definitions for alpha radiation

alpha radiation
[ (al-fuh) ]

Particles sent out by some radioactive nuclei, each particle consisting of two protons and two neutrons bound together. Alpha particles carry a positive charge. (See beta radiation and gamma radiation.)

notes for alpha radiation

Alpha radiation, unlike gamma radiation, has low penetrating power; it can be stopped by clothing.