The chemical nature of the alpha particles from radioactive substances

"The Chemical Nature of the Alpha Particles from Radioactive Substances" by Ernest Rutherford is a scientific paper that explores the nature of alpha particles emitted by radioactive elements. The paper, from a 1908 Nobel lecture, retraces the steps that led to the groundbreaking discovery of alpha particles as positively charged particles, similar to helium atoms. Rutherford presents experiments, like those showing the limited penetration of alpha particles, which underline their specific qualities and their contribution to radioactive energy. It highlights how the decay of elements such as uranium and radium involves alpha particles, building on the understanding of radioactivity and the structure of matter. The paper links the emission of these particles to the production of helium, adding to the knowledge of atomic changes.