Concept explainers
When a uranium nucleus emits an alpha particle, the atomic number of the new element is
(a) decreased by 2 .
(b) decreased by 4 .
(c) increased by 2 .
(d) increased by 4 .
The correct option for the statement "When a uranium nucleus emits an alpha particle, the atomic number of the new element is."
Answer to Problem 4RAT
The correct option for the statement "When a uranium nucleus emits an alpha particle, the atomic number of the new element is" is option (a).
Explanation of Solution
An alpha particle is made up of two protons as well as two neutrons. The atomic number gives the count of protons in the atomic nucleus. Thus, when an alpha particle is emitted from a nucleus, two protons are emitted. So, the atomic number of the element produced by alpha emission reduces by 2 .
The atomic number of the new element decreases by 4 , if two alpha particles with total 4 protons are emitted. A proton is formed in a single beta emission. Therefore, the atomic number of the new element increases by 2 if two beta particles are emitted.
The atomic number climbs by 4 if four beta particles are emitted because a proton is formed in a beta emission.
Conclusion:
Therefore, the correct option for the statement "When a uranium nucleus emits an alpha particle, the atomic number of the new element is option (a).
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