* Composition: An alpha particle is essentially the nucleus of a helium atom. It consists of:
* 2 protons: Protons carry a positive charge.
* 2 neutrons: Neutrons are neutral (no charge).
* Net Charge: Since the alpha particle has two positively charged protons and no negatively charged electrons, its overall charge is +2.
In simpler terms: Imagine a tiny ball with two little "plus" signs inside. That's essentially what an alpha particle looks like!