Recall that unstable atomic nuclei may randomly emit alpha particles, beta particles, neutrons, or gamma rays to achieve stability.
Describe the composition of an alpha particle as two protons and two neutrons (identical to a helium nucleus) and a beta particle as a high-speed electron ejected when a neutron turns into a proton.
Understand that gamma rays are a form of high-energy electromagnetic radiation emitted from the nucleus without altering nuclear mass or charge.
Relate the emission of these radiations to specific changes in the atomic mass and charge of the decaying nucleus.
Write and properly balance nuclear equations representing single alpha and beta decay using standard element names and symbols.
Use a periodic table to deduce the products of radioactive decay by balancing atomic numbers and mass numbers.
