According to the equation AZ X → Y + 3 α particles, what are the atomic and mass numbers of 'Y'?
Correct answer: A. Z - 6, A - 12
- A. Z - 6, A - 12
- B. Z + 1, A
- C. Z - 2, A - 4
- D. Z + 3, A
Explanation
Option A is correct because the equation shows that 3 alpha particles are emitted from the nucleus. Each alpha particle has a mass number of 4, so the total mass number of the three alpha particles is 3 × 4 = 12. Since alpha particles have an atomic number of 2, the total atomic number of the three alpha particles is 3 × 2 = 6.
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About Radioactive Decay
Radioactive decay is the spontaneous transformation of unstable nuclei, described by decay constant, activity, half life and the exponential decay law. Work includes alpha, beta and gamma emissions, decay equations and remaining nuclei, with half life distinguished from the time required for complete decay.
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