Chapter 25, Problem 66A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Balanced nuclear equation for alpha emission for each isotope is to be written.

Concept introduction:

The nuclear process known as "alpha decay" results in the parent nucleus emitting an alpha particle. The alpha particle, represented by the Greek letter and physically similar to the helium atom's nucleus, is made up of two protons and two neutrons.

Answer to Problem 66A

Balanced nuclear equation for alpha emission

(a) $Pa\to Ac+He$

(b) $Am\to Np+He$

(c) $Ra\to Rn+He$

(d) $Es\to Bk+He$

Explanation of Solution

Alpha decay involves the emission of an alpha particle, to establish the balanced nuclear reaction for this decay, the atomic and mass number must be conserved from the initial isotope to the product of the decay. The element produced can then be identified from the atomic number.

Balanced nuclear equation for the alpha emission:

(a)$Pa$ = $Pa\to Ac+He$

(b) $Am$ = $Am\to Np+He$

(c) $Ra$ = $Ra\to Rn+He$

(d) $Es$ = $Es\to Bk+He$