What is produced as a result of alpha decay?

Alpha decay is a type of radioactive decay in which an unstable nucleus emits an alpha particle, which consists of two protons and two neutrons. This emission results in a transformation of the original nucleus. Specifically, the nucleus loses particles, which decreases its atomic number by two and its mass number by four.

As a consequence of this process, the nucleus becomes a different element that has a lighter atomic mass. Since the atomic number is also decreased, it means that the new nucleus is indeed a lighter one with a reduced atomic number. This change characterizes the outcome of alpha decay, effectively leading to the production of a lighter atomic nucleus.

While some may speculate about heavier nuclei, radioactive isotopes, or stable isotopes in different contexts, the fundamental process of alpha decay specifically yields a lighter atomic nucleus, confirming that this answer accurately reflects the nature of alpha decay.