alpha particle
noun
: a positively charged nuclear particle identical with the nucleus of a helium atom that consists of two protons and two neutrons and is ejected at high speed in certain radioactive transformations
called also alpha, alpha radiation, alpha ray
Examples of alpha particle in a Sentence
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The instructor taught Harris how to build a cloud chamber to investigate the collision of alpha particles with water droplets.
—
IEEE Spectrum, 18 Sep. 2024
These fusion products may fuse with other deuterons, creating an alpha particle, or with another helium-3 or hydrogen-3 nucleus.
—Bayarbadrakh Baramsai, IEEE Spectrum, 27 Feb. 2022
Compared to beta particles, alpha particles are larger and more energetic.
—Discover Magazine, 8 July 2024
Another key advantage of alpha particles is their limited travel distance.
—Discover Magazine, 8 July 2024
See all Example Sentences for alpha particle 
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IEEE Spectrum, 18 Sep. 2024
These fusion products may fuse with other deuterons, creating an alpha particle, or with another helium-3 or hydrogen-3 nucleus.
—Bayarbadrakh Baramsai, IEEE Spectrum, 27 Feb. 2022
Compared to beta particles, alpha particles are larger and more energetic.
—Discover Magazine, 8 July 2024
Another key advantage of alpha particles is their limited travel distance.
—Discover Magazine, 8 July 2024
See all Example Sentences for alpha particle
Dictionary Entries Near alpha particle
Cite this Entry
“Alpha particle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alpha%20particle. Accessed 22 Feb. 2025.
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