Alpha process
The alpha process is like playing with building blocks, but these building blocks are very small and called atoms. Atoms are tiny things that make up everything around us, like air, rocks, and even people!
Inside each atom, there are even tinier things called protons and neutrons, which are like the building blocks of atoms. Sometimes, one kind of atom called a heavy atom, like gold, uranium, and lead, can break apart into smaller atoms by releasing particles called alpha particles.
Alpha particles are made up of two protons and two neutrons, which stick together like glue. When heavy atoms release alpha particles, they become a different kind of atom. It's like taking apart a big Lego castle and building a smaller castle from the pieces.
This process is called the alpha process, and it happens naturally. It's even happening right now in space, where stars are fusing atoms together using the alpha process. The energy released by the alpha process makes stars shine and gives us life!
Inside each atom, there are even tinier things called protons and neutrons, which are like the building blocks of atoms. Sometimes, one kind of atom called a heavy atom, like gold, uranium, and lead, can break apart into smaller atoms by releasing particles called alpha particles.
Alpha particles are made up of two protons and two neutrons, which stick together like glue. When heavy atoms release alpha particles, they become a different kind of atom. It's like taking apart a big Lego castle and building a smaller castle from the pieces.
This process is called the alpha process, and it happens naturally. It's even happening right now in space, where stars are fusing atoms together using the alpha process. The energy released by the alpha process makes stars shine and gives us life!