GK QUESTION#3067
Which nuclear symbol represents an alpha particle? Use the upper number as mass number and the lower number as proton number.
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Answer
D. ⁴₂He
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Explanation
An alpha particle is a helium-4 nucleus: two protons and two neutrons, conventionally written ⁴₂He. Its charge is +2e because it has no bound electrons. The upper number is the mass number and the lower number the proton number.