Chapter 20, Problem 36E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The blanks in the partial decay series are to be filled.

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 decay $\left(\alpha \right)$.

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

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

During beta decay, atomic number increases by 1.