Chapter 9.2, Problem 9.7P

(a)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The balanced nuclear reaction for an alpha decay of Polonium-218 has to be given.

Concept Introduction:

Alpha decay reaction:

Alpha decay is one process that unstable atoms can use to become more stable.  During alpha decay, an atomsnucleus sheds two protons and two neutrons in a packet that is known as an alpha particle.

  ${{}_{\text{Z}}}^{\text{A}}\text{X}{\stackrel{}{\to }}_{\text{Z-2}}{}^{\text{A-4}}{\text{X+}}_{\text{2}}{}^{\text{4}}\text{α}$

(b)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The balanced nuclear reaction for an alpha decay of Thorium-230 has to be given.

Concept Introduction:

Refer to part (a).

(c)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The balanced nuclear reaction for an alpha decay of Einstenium-252 has to be given.

Concept Introduction:

Refer to part (a).