What type of particles does radon emit?

Radon is a radioactive noble gas that primarily emits alpha particles during its decay process. Alpha particles are heavy and positively charged, consisting of two protons and two neutrons. Due to their larger mass and charge, alpha particles have a relatively short range and are not able to penetrate materials such as human skin, but they can cause significant damage if ingested or inhaled.

The emission of alpha particles is a key characteristic of many heavy radioactive elements, including radon, which is a decay product of uranium and thorium in the earth's crust. Understanding radon and its emissions is crucial for environmental health specialists, particularly because radon exposure is linked to lung cancer risk when it accumulates in indoor air spaces.

In contrast to the incorrect options, beta particles are lighter and consist of electrons or positrons, while gamma rays are high-energy electromagnetic radiation and not particles. X-rays are also a form of electromagnetic radiation but are typically generated differently from the decay process of radon. Recognizing the specific type of particle that radon emits helps in assessing radiation hazards and implementing appropriate safety measures.