Radioactive decay question Ra to Rn

In summary, the conversation discusses the alpha decay of Ra (mass number 226, atomic number 88) to form Radon. The energy released in the decay is calculated using the mass defect and the equation E=mc2. The second part of the conversation involves finding the kinetic energy of both products after the decay, which is determined by the ratio of their masses and the conservation of linear momentum. The kinetic energy of the alpha particle is calculated to be 479 MeV, while the kinetic energy of the radon nucleus is 9 MeV.
  • #1
rshalloo
52
0

Homework Statement



Ra (mass number 226 atomic number 88) undergoes alpha decay to form radon. If the mass of a radium nucleus is 3.753152x10-25kg, the mass of the radon nucleus is 3.686602x10-25kg and the mass of the alpha particle is 6.646322x10-27kg, find the energy released in the alpha decay in MeV.

If the ratio of the mass of the products of the decay is equal to the ratio of their mass numbers, find the kinetic energy of both products after the decay

charge of electron=1.6x10-19C
speed of light in a vacuum=3x108ms-1

The Attempt at a Solution



So for the first part I got .488MeV using the mass defect and E=mc2 (could well be wrong) but I am stuck on the second part i don't understand what they are talking about ratios for?
 
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  • #2
rshalloo said:

Homework Statement


Ra (mass number 226 atomic number 88) undergoes alpha decay to form radon. If the mass of a radium nucleus is 3.753152x10-25kg, the mass of the radon nucleus is 3.686602x10-25kg and the mass of the alpha particle is 6.646322x10-27kg, find the energy released in the alpha decay in MeV.
If the ratio of the mass of the products of the decay is equal to the ratio of their mass numbers, find the kinetic energy of both products after the decay
charge of electron=1.6x10-19C
speed of light in a vacuum=3x108ms-1

[tex]{Ra}_{88}^{226}\rightarrow{\alpha}_2^4+{Rn}_{86}^{222}[/tex]

[tex]\text{energy released}=\frac{(3.753152\times{10}^{-25}-3.686601\times{10}^{-25}-6.646322\times{10}^{-27})(3\times{10}^8)^2}{1.6\times10^{-19}}=488MeV[/tex][tex]KE=\frac{mv^2}{2}=\frac{m^{2}v^2}{2m}[/tex]

[tex]\text{By conservation of linear momentum}, m_{\alpha}v_{\alpha}=m_{Rn}v_{Rn}[/tex]

[tex]\therefore\ \ \ \ \ \frac{KE_{\alpha}}{KE_{Rn}}=\frac{m_{Rn}}{m_\alpha}=\frac{222}{4}[/tex]

I think all the decay energy goes to KE. Then:[tex]KE_\alpha=488MeV\times\frac{222}{222+4}=479MeV\ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ KE_{Rn}=9MeV[/tex]
 

1. What is radioactive decay?

Radioactive decay is the process by which an unstable atom loses energy and transforms into a more stable form. This process is accompanied by the release of radiation.

2. What is the difference between Ra and Rn in terms of radioactive decay?

Ra (radium) and Rn (radon) are both elements that undergo radioactive decay. The main difference is that Ra decays into Rn, which is a gas, while Rn continues to decay into other elements until it reaches a stable form.

3. How is the rate of radioactive decay measured?

The rate of radioactive decay is measured using the half-life of an element. This is the amount of time it takes for half of the original amount of a radioactive element to decay into a more stable form.

4. What are the dangers of exposure to radioactive decay products?

The main danger of exposure to radioactive decay products is the potential damage to living cells. Exposure to high levels of radiation can cause radiation sickness, DNA damage, and an increased risk of cancer.

5. How is radioactive decay used in scientific research and technology?

Radioactive decay is used in a variety of scientific research and technologies, including radiometric dating, medical imaging, and nuclear power. By studying the rate of decay of different elements, scientists can determine the age of rocks and fossils, diagnose and treat medical conditions, and generate electricity.

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