Chapter 20, Problem 9E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The number of a and β particles formed during the various stages of transformations during the decay series of ²⁴⁷Bk giving ²⁰⁷Pb as its final product needs to be determined.

Concept introduction:

The unstable atomic nucleus that does not have the same number of protons and neutrons will transform to smaller stable units releasing radiations like alpha, beta and gamma. Alpha particles have two neutrons and two protons while beta decay will occur causing conversion of proton to neutron or neutron to protons. But in gamma ray emission, there is no loss or gain of electrons or neutrons.