Chapter 14, Problem 14.97PAE

(a)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The nuclear equation for the alpha decay of ²³⁸Pu should be written.

Concept Introduction: Nuclear Stability is a concept that helps to identify the stability of an isotope and thus the type of nuclear reaction a nucleus undergo, can be determined. The two main factors that determine nuclear stability are the neutron/proton ratio and the total number of nucleons in the nucleus.

When a nucleus undergoes alpha -decay $\left({}_2^4\alpha \right)$, the atomic number is decreased by 2, and mass number is decreased by 4.

(b)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The electrical power output in watts for an RTG having 7.8 kg of ²³⁸PuO₂ should be calculated if the energy output from the decay of ²³⁸Pu is 0.54 kW and the conversion of heat to electrical energy is 6.5% efficient should be calculated.

Concept Introduction:

Nuclear Stability is a concept that helps to identify the stability of an isotope and thus the type of nuclear reaction a nucleus undergo, can be determined. The two main factors that determine nuclear stability are the neutron/proton ratio and the total number of nucleons in the nucleus.

Masses of species are always in the same ratio as the molar masses. Unitary method can be used to calculate the electrical power output