A loss of a beta particle results in an increase in atomic number . All nuclei weigh less than their parts. This mass defect is converted into binding energy. Geiger counters, photographic plates, cloud and bubble chambers are all used to detect or observe radiation. Rutherford discovered the positive nucleus using his famous gold-foil experiment.
Fusion requires that hydrogen be combined to make helium.
Fission requires that a neutron causes uranium to be split into middle size atoms and produce extra neutrons. Radioactive half-lives can not be changed by heat or pressure. Nuclear forces are strong and short ranged. Special thanks to Physics teacher Jim Davidson for creating this list.