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Chapter 15: Problem 18

Write an equation for the alpha decay of \(\frac{288}{90}\) Th.

Short Answer

Expert verified
The alpha decay equation of \(\frac{288}{90}\) Th is: \(\frac{288}{90}\) Th ---> \(\frac{4}{2}\) He + \(\frac{284}{88}\) Ra

Step by step solution

01

Identify the Initial Nucleus

The given radioactive element is Thorium (\(\frac{288}{90}\) Th), which has an atomic mass of 288 and an atomic number of 90.
02

Characteristics of an Alpha Particle

An alpha particle is identified by the symbol \(\frac{4}{2}\) He. It has an atomic number of 2 and an atomic mass of 4.
03

Apply the Alpha Decay Process

In an alpha decay, the original nucleus loses 2 protons and 2 neutrons to the ejected alpha particle. The atomic number reduces by 2, and the atomic mass reduces by 4.
04

Write the Alpha Decay Equation

According to the alpha decay process, the alpha decay equation of \(\frac{288}{90}\) Th is: \(\frac{288}{90}\) Th ---> \(\frac{4}{2}\) He + \(\frac{284}{88}\) Ra

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Key Concepts

These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.

Nuclear Reactions
Nuclear reactions are fascinating processes that involve changes in the nucleus of an atom. These changes result in the transformation of one or more elements into new types. Unlike chemical reactions that involve the electrons surrounding the nucleus, nuclear reactions focus on altering the protons and neutrons inside it.
This change can release a significant amount of energy, often much greater than chemical reactions.
  • Nuclear reactions include processes such as fission, fusion, and radioactive decay.
  • Alpha decay is a type of radioactive decay where an atomic nucleus emits an alpha particle and transforms into a new element.
This transformation results in the release of energy as well, which can sometimes be harnessed for energy production or medical purposes.
Understanding nuclear reactions is crucial for exploring energy sources and safety protocols.
Radioactive Decay
Radioactive decay is a natural and spontaneous process where an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by emitting radiation. There are several types of radioactive decay including alpha decay, beta decay, and gamma decay. Each type involves different particles being emitted by the nucleus.
Alpha decay is specifically the emission of an alpha particle, which consists of 2 protons and 2 neutrons.
  • This process leads to a decrease in atomic number and atomic mass of the original element.
  • The element transforms into a different element as a result of radioactive decay, thereby changing its identity.
This decay process is a crucial component of nuclear physics and helps explain the behavior of radioactive elements over time.
Thorium Decay Equation
The thorium decay equation is an example of an alpha decay process. In this specific case, the decay of thorium-288 (represented as \(\frac{288}{90} Th\)) results in the emission of an alpha particle.
To understand this, you first consider the characteristics of the alpha particle, which has a nucleus similar to that of helium-4, written as \(\frac{4}{2} He\).
  • During the decay, thorium-288 loses an alpha particle. This means it loses 2 protons and 2 neutrons to \(\frac{4}{2} He\).
  • Consequently, its atomic mass reduces by 4, and the atomic number decreases by 2.
The remaining nucleus after the thorium decay forms radium-284, represented as \(\frac{284}{88} Ra\).
Writing this equation provides a clear view of how radioactive elements transform and illustrates the alpha decay process effectively.

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