Radioctive Decay Practice

University:
High School
Course:
High School Chemistry
Academic year:

2021
Views:

287

Pages:

1
Author:

Bridger Mosley

Radioactive Decay Worksheet #2 Key Concepts When an atomic nucleus decays, it does so by releasing one or more particles. The atom often (but not always) turns into a different element during the decay process. The number of protons and neutrons in a nuclear decay process is conserved. This means that you will have the same total atomic number on both sides of the equation. Know the abbreviations for the following common radiation particles: Neutron: n Proton: p or H Alpha: α or He Beta Particle: β or B Positron: 0e Gamma Rays: γ Alpha decay is the process in which an isotope releases a helium nucleus (2 protons and 2 neutrons) and thus decays into an atom with two less protons. Example: 23890Th → 23488Ra + 42He Fill in the missing isotope or subatomic particle: 23892U → 23490Th + 42He 23894Pu → 23492U + 42He 22187Fr → 21785At + 42He 20482Pb → 20080Hg + 42He 19076Os → 18674W + 42He 18676Os → 18274W + 42He 17872Hf → 17470Yb + 42He 19074W → 17872Hf + 42He 24996Cm → 24594Pu + 42He Beta decay is the process in which one of the neutrons in an isotope decays, leaving a proton, electron and neutrino. As a result, the nucleus decays into an atom that has the same number of nucleons, with one neutron replaced by a proton. (Positron decay is the reverse process, in which a proton decays into a neutron, anti-electron and neutrino.) Example: Carbon-14 turns into Nitrogen 14 through a beta decay 10746Pd → 10747Ag + -10β 3215P → 3216S + -10β 4019K → 4020Ca + -10β 3215P → 3216S + -10β 3H → 32He + -10β 146C → 147N + -10β 5426Fe → 5425Mn + 10β 6430Zn → 6429Cu + 10β 6429Cu → 6430Zn + 10β Note: Beta + (positron decay) 6430Zn → 6429Cu + 10β 5426Fe → 5425Mn + 10β Which of the three radioactive emissions (α, β, γ) best fit the following statements? Write the correct symbol(s) on the lines. a) These emissions have a charge. α, β b) This emission is the most massive (heaviest). α c) This emission is most dangerous outside of the body. γ d) This emission is stopped by thin paper or a few centimeters of air. α e) This emission can travel through paper, but is stopped by aluminum. β f) This emission can travel through fairly thick lead. γ