- In an alpha decay, which particle is emitted from the nucleus? A) Alpha particle B) Beta particle C) Gamma ray D) Positron The correct answer is A. An alpha decay is a type of radioactive decay in which an alpha particle is emitted from the nucleus. An alpha particle is a helium nucleus, which consists of two protons and two neutrons. When an alpha particle is emitted from the nucleus, the atomic number of the nucleus decreases by 2 and the mass number decreases by 4.