Interactive

Alpha Decay

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet

There are different types of radioactive decay, and alpha decay is when there are too many protons in a nucleus. Here is a simulation that shows alpha particles being emitted from a polonium nucleus. Learners see how radioactive decay occurs and each nuclei's half-life.

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CCSS: Adaptable
NGSS: Adaptable
Additional Tags
Instructional Ideas
  • Simulation is short and fits well and easily into a presentation or discussion about radioactive decay
Classroom Considerations
  • When teachers register for free, they gain access to teacher tips, lesson plans, and other related activities
  • Simulation best fits upper level middle school and high school learners 
Pros
  • You can project the simulation in a number of different languages
  • Atoms' nuclei can be changed by moving the half-life arrow or moving the total and potential energy lines
Cons
  • None
Common Core
NGSS