Chapter 17, Problem 67E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The partial decay series of $\text{Th-}232$ undergoing $\alpha ,\beta ,\beta ,\alpha$ sequential decays is to be written.

Concept Introduction: When an unstable nucleus emits a small part of itself that consists of 2 protons and 2 neutrons, it is known as an alpha $\left(\alpha \right)$ decay.

It is represented as:

$\text{alpha}\left(\alpha \right)\text{particle }\text{H}\text{e}$

During an alpha decay, mass number decreases by 4 and atomic number decreases by 2.

When an unstable nucleus emits an electron, it is known as beta $\left(\beta \right)$ decay.

During beta decay, atomic number increases by 1.