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Ch.21 - Radioactivity & Nuclear Chemistry
All textbooksTro 6th EditionCh.21 - Radioactivity & Nuclear ChemistryProblem 81b
Chapter 21, Problem 81b

Write the nuclear equation for the most likely mode of decay for each unstable nuclide. b. Ra-216

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Identify the type of decay: Radium-216 (Ra-216) is likely to undergo alpha decay because it is a heavy nuclide.
Write the general equation for alpha decay: In alpha decay, a nucleus emits an alpha particle, which is a helium nucleus \( ^4_2\text{He} \).
Determine the daughter nuclide: Subtract the mass number and atomic number of the alpha particle from Ra-216. The atomic number of radium (Ra) is 88.
Calculate the new mass number: \( 216 - 4 = 212 \).
Calculate the new atomic number: \( 88 - 2 = 86 \). The element with atomic number 86 is radon (Rn), so the daughter nuclide is Rn-212.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Nuclear Decay

Nuclear decay is the process by which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by emitting radiation. This can occur through various modes, including alpha decay, beta decay, and gamma decay. Each mode involves the transformation of the nucleus, resulting in the emission of particles or electromagnetic radiation, leading to the formation of a different nuclide.
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Alpha Decay

Alpha Decay

Alpha decay is a type of radioactive decay in which an unstable nucleus emits an alpha particle, consisting of two protons and two neutrons (essentially a helium nucleus). This process decreases the atomic number by two and the mass number by four, resulting in the formation of a new element. It is common in heavy elements, such as radium, which is relevant for Ra-216.
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Nuclear Equation

A nuclear equation represents the transformation of one nuclide into another during a decay process. It includes the symbols for the initial nuclide, the emitted particles, and the resulting nuclide, ensuring that both mass and atomic numbers are conserved. Writing a nuclear equation for Ra-216 involves identifying the decay mode and accurately depicting the reactants and products involved.
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Related Practice
Textbook Question

Suppose a patient is given 1.55 mg of I-131, a beta emitter with a half-life of 8.0 days. Assuming that none of the I-131 is eliminated from the person's body in the first 4.0 hours of treatment, what is the exposure (in Ci) during those first four hours?

Textbook Question

Complete each nuclear equation and calculate the energy change (in J/mol of reactant) associated with each (Be-9 = 9.012182 amu, Bi-209 = 208.980384 amu, He-4 = 4.002603 amu, Li-6 = 6.015122 amu, Ni-64 = 63.927969 amu, Rg-272 = 272.1535 amu, Ta-179 = 178.94593 amu, and W-179 = 178.94707 amu). a. _____ + 94Be → 63Li + 42He

Textbook Question

Write the nuclear equation for the most likely mode of decay for each unstable nuclide. a. Ru-114 c. Zn-58 d. Ne-31