Chapter 4, Problem 1STP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Description of an atom of plutonium from the given choices needs to be identified.

Concept introduction:

Plutonium is a radioactive element. It is represented by the symbol Pu and the atomic number is 94. Plutonium is actinide metal. It has silver-gray color which on exposure with air, gets tarnished and on oxidizing forms a dull coating.

Answer to Problem 1STP

Correct answer: Option (b)

Explanation of Solution

Reason for correct option:

Radioactive atoms emit radiation because they have unstable nuclei, thus it acts as an unbalanced atom.

Thus, plutonium cannot be divided into smaller particles with all the properties retained as it is a radioactive element.

Conclusion

Reasons for incorrect options:

Option (a) plutonium ions are divisible into smaller particle yet retain all the properties of the element. This is not true because plutonium is a radioactive element. It undergoes decay and results in the formation of new elements.

Option (c) An atom of plutonium does not possess all the properties of a larger quantity of the element. The larger quantity of plutonium has the similar plutonium atoms thus, the properties are same.

Option (d) The atomic number of plutonium is 244. Atomic number of plutonium is 94. And 244 is the mass number of the isotope of plutonium.