Chapter 19, Problem 19.48SP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The number of $\alpha$ particles and $\beta$ particles emitted for $Thorium-232$ decays by a $10-$ series which ultimately yields $lead-208$ must be found out.

Concept introduction: When an alpha( $\alpha$ ) particle is emitted from any radioactive element, the product has an atomic number two( $2$ ) units less and a mass number four ( $4$

• ) units less than that of parent element.
When an beta( $\beta$ ) particle is emitted from any radioactive element, the product has an atomic number one( $1$
• ) unit greater and a mass number is unchanged than that of parent element.
Given: $Thorium-232{(}_{90}T{h}^{232})$ is a radioisotope which by a $10-$ series decay yields $lead-208{(}_{82}P{b}^{208})$.