Physics · Unit 1 · Ionising radiation and nuclear reactions · Nuclear model and stability
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A research facility monitors three separate nuclear decay events over a 24-hour period. The table below shows the initial nuclide, the type of decay observed, and one of the products detected. For Event 1, write the balanced nuclear equation for the alpha decay of Radium-226. For Event 2, determine the other particle emitted in the beta-minus decay and include it in a balanced nuclear equation for this event. Show your working.
Which particle correctly completes the following nuclear decay equation? \[ \mathrm{^{226}_{88}Ra} \rightarrow \mathrm{^{222}_{86}Rn} + \, ? \]
A sample of uranium-238 undergoes alpha decay to form thorium, which then undergoes beta decay. The mass number of the final nucleus is 234. Determine the atomic number of the final nucleus and write the balanced nuclear equation for the beta decay process. Show your working.
A research team is investigating a decay series that begins with uranium-238 (\(^{238}_{92}\text{U}\)) and produces lead-206 (\(^{206}_{82}\text{Pb}\)) as a stable end product. During this decay series, both alpha (\(\alpha\)) and beta-minus (\(\beta^-\)) particles are emitted. Determine the number of alpha particles and the number of beta-minus particles emitted in this complete decay series.