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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However, because the alpha particles will damage a semiconductor, their use generally requires a conversion option that relies on heat converted to electricity.
—
IEEE Spectrum, 25 Aug. 2025
These alpha particles interact with and transfer energy into the material surrounding the plutonium, which heats up that material.
—Benjamin Roulston, The Conversation, 14 Mar. 2025
Another key advantage of alpha particles is their limited travel distance.
—Discover Magazine, 8 July 2024
An alpha particle is made of two protons and two neutrons.
—WIRED, 8 Sep. 2023
See All Example Sentences for alpha particle
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IEEE Spectrum, 25 Aug. 2025
These alpha particles interact with and transfer energy into the material surrounding the plutonium, which heats up that material.
—Benjamin Roulston, The Conversation, 14 Mar. 2025
Another key advantage of alpha particles is their limited travel distance.
—Discover Magazine, 8 July 2024
An alpha particle is made of two protons and two neutrons.
—WIRED, 8 Sep. 2023
See All Example Sentences for alpha particle
Cite this Entry
“Alpha particle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alpha%20particle. Accessed 5 Sep. 2025.
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