alpha decay

noun Physics.

a radioactive process in which an alpha particle is emitted from the nucleus of an atom, decreasing its atomic number by two.

Origin of alpha decay

First recorded in 1935–40

Words nearby alpha decay

alpha brass, alpha carotene, alpha cell, alpha centauri, alpha centauri system, alpha decay, alpha emitter, alpha fiber, alpha geek, alpha globulin, alpha granule

British Dictionary definitions for alpha decay

alpha decay

noun

the radioactive decay process resulting in emission of alpha particles

Scientific definitions for alpha decay

alpha decay

The radioactive decay of an atomic nucleus by emission of an alpha particle (two protons bound to two neutrons). When an element undergoes alpha decay, its atomic number decreases by two.