Why do heavy nuclei like 238U92 undergo alpha decay more often than beta decay?
Correct answer: B. Alpha decay reduces the Coulomb repulsion in the nucleus
- A. Alpha decay increases the neutron to proton ratio
- B. Alpha decay reduces the Coulomb repulsion in the nucleus
- C. Alpha decay emits more energy than beta decay
- D. Alpha decay involves weaker nuclear forces
Explanation
Heavy nuclei have high proton numbers, leading to strong Coulomb repulsion. Emitting an alpha particle (2 protons, 2 neutrons) reduces the proton number and Coulomb repulsion, stabilizing the nucleus more effectively than beta decay.
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Atomic nuclei contain protons and neutrons, with nuclear size, mass defect and binding energy describing their stability. The work covers alpha, beta and gamma decay, decay equations, half-life and decay rate, along with radiation safety and medical applications such as imaging, radiotherapy and tracers.
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