Chapter 21.1, Problem 21.2.1PE

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The radioactive decay of thorium-232 is given to occur in multiple steps. Second product of radioactive decay chain of thorium $-232$ is given to be actinium-228. The process that leads to this product, with the starting element given as thorium $-232$ , is to be identified.

Concept introduction: In alpha emission atomic number of a nucleus that is undergoing alpha decay is reduced by two and mass number is reduced by four.

In beta emission, a decrease in the number of neutrons and an increase in the number of protons take place.

To determine: The processes that leads the given product starting with thorium $-232$ .