Alpha, Beta, and Gamma Radiation Explained - Types of Radioactive Decay #3073775 (License: Personal Use)

This schematic depicts the three primary types of nuclear decay: alpha decay releases helium-4 nuclei (2 protons + 2 neutrons), beta decay involves emission of electrons (β⁻) or positrons (β⁺) due to neutron-proton conversion, and gamma decay emits high-energy electromagnetic photons without changing atomic number or mass. Each decay mode corresponds to different energy levels and stability corrections in the nucleus.

Used in educational physics and chemistry resources-especially introductory nuclear science modules-to visually differentiate decay mechanisms. Matches user intent for learning foundational concepts in radioactivity, radiation safety, or nuclear medicine.