Chapter 17, Problem 1SAQ

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The daughter nuclide results from the alpha decay of bismuth-24 is to be identified.

Concept Introduction: In case of an alpha decay, the mass number gets reduced by 4 units and the atomic number by 2 units. This is because alpha decay implies release of a Helium particle which has atomic number 2 and mass number 4. Applying this concept, we can easily figure out which of the given options has lost atomic number and mass number by the respective desired units.

Answer to Problem 1SAQ

Correct Answer: The alpha decay of $\text{bismuth-214}$ results in the formation of ${}_{81}^{210}\text{Tl}$. Therefore, option a is the correct answer.

Explanation of Solution

Reasons for Correct option:

The atomic number and mass number of $\text{bismuth-214}$ is 83 and 214 respectively. An alpha decay represents the loss of ${}_2^4\text{He}$ particle. Therefore, the daughter nuclide results from the alpha decay of $\text{bismuth-214}$ is ${}_{81}^{210}\text{Tl}$.

Reasons for incorrect option:

Taking into consideration the other options, none of them are results of an alpha decay. This is because option (b) and (c) show a substantial increase in the mass number. Therefore, options (b) and (c) are incorrect. In the option (d), the atomic number is same. Therefore, option (d) is incorrect. These results prove that alpha decay is not possible in these cases and therefore these are incorrect options.

Hence, options (b), (c) and (d) are incorrect.