Chapter 24, Problem 52A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

A balanced nuclear equation for the alpha decay of americium-241 to be written.

Concept introduction:

Radioactive decay is unstable nuclei that lose energy by emitting radiation in a spontaneous process. Until they form stable atoms unstable atoms undergo radioactive decay, often of a dissimilar element.

Answer to Problem 52A

Balanced nuclear equation for the alpha decay of americium-241 is as follows:

$\text{A}\text{m}\to \text{H}\text{e+}\text{N}\text{p}$

Explanation of Solution

An alpha particle has two protons and two neutrons. Thus charge is +2. Alpha radiation diverted towards negatively charged plate. Alpha particle $\left(\text{α}\right)$ and has same composition as helium nucleolus and is designated as $\text{H}\text{e}$. A balanced nuclear equation for the alpha decay of americium-241 is as follows:

$\text{A}\text{m}\to \text{H}\text{e+}\text{N}\text{p}$

Conclusion

An alpha particle $\left(\text{α}\right)$ is designated as $\text{H}\text{e}$. Thus balanced equation for americium-241 is as follows:

$\text{A}\text{m}\to \text{H}\text{e+}\text{N}\text{p}$