What is the balanced nuclear equation for the alpha decay of plutonium-238? (a) (b) (c) (d)

Key Concepts

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. This process decreases the atomic number by two and the mass number by four, resulting in the transformation of the original element into a new element. Understanding alpha decay is crucial for writing balanced nuclear equations.

Nuclear Equations

Nuclear equations represent the changes that occur during radioactive decay, showing the initial and final nuclei along with any emitted particles. These equations must be balanced in terms of both mass number and atomic number to comply with the conservation laws of nuclear reactions. Mastery of writing and balancing these equations is essential for solving problems related to nuclear chemistry.

Plutonium-238

Plutonium-238 is a radioactive isotope of plutonium with a mass number of 238. It undergoes alpha decay, which is significant in applications such as radioisotope thermoelectric generators used in space missions. Knowing the properties of plutonium-238, including its decay process, is vital for accurately determining the products of its decay in nuclear equations.