What is the difference between an α-particle and helium atom ? - Vidyadip

Question

What is the difference between an α-particle and helium atom ?

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Answer

Helium atom is composed of 2 protons and 2 neutrons (or 1 neutron) along with 2 electrons in the outer shell.
On the other hand, α-particle constitutes 2 protons and 2 neutrons bound together to form a particle which is similar to helium (except presence of electrons).
Helium is one of the inert gas which is stable (duplet complete) whereas α-particle is unstable and highly reactive.

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