What defines the kind of decay an isotope would go for?

In summary, isotopes can decay in more than one way and it depends on the masses of the decay products. Spontaneous fission is possible in both U-235 and U-238.
  • #1
magdi_gamal
9
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first, is my initial understanding correct that each isotope go for only a particular kind of decay?

and if so, why? What makes uranium-238 go only for an alpha decay? while uranium 235 go for a fission decay?
 
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  • #2
and why does uranium-236 decay faster than uranium-235?
 
  • #3
magdi_gamal said:
first, is my initial understanding correct that each isotope go for only a particular kind of decay?

No, it's possible for an isotope to decay in more than one way. For example, radon-221 can decay either via alpha decay to polonium-217 (about 22% of the time), or via beta decay to francium-221 (about 78% of the time).

Whether a particular mode of decay is possible for a particular isotope, depends on the masses of the decay products.

If the sum of the masses of the decay products is less than the mass of the initial nucleus, then the decay is possible. The "disappearing" mass appears as the kinetic energy of the products.

If the sum of the masses of the decay products is greater than the mass of the initial nucleus, then the decay is impossible as a spontaneous process; energy needs to be supplied from outside in order to create the extra mass.

What makes uranium-238 go only for an alpha decay? while uranium 235 go for a fission decay?

Spontaneous fission is possible in both U-235 and U-238.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spontaneous_fission
 
  • #4
Thanks a lot jtbell, it's clear now.
 

1. What is an isotope?

An isotope is a form of an element that has the same number of protons but a different number of neutrons. This results in a different atomic mass for the element.

2. How does an isotope decay?

An isotope decays when the nucleus of the atom becomes unstable and releases energy in the form of radiation. This process is known as radioactive decay.

3. What factors determine the type of decay an isotope will undergo?

The type of decay an isotope will undergo is determined by the ratio of protons to neutrons in the nucleus of the atom. This ratio can vary depending on the specific isotope.

4. What are the different types of decay an isotope can undergo?

The three main types of decay an isotope can undergo are alpha decay, beta decay, and gamma decay. Alpha decay involves the emission of an alpha particle, beta decay involves the emission of a beta particle, and gamma decay involves the release of gamma rays.

5. How is the type of decay an isotope undergoes important in scientific research?

The type of decay an isotope undergoes can provide valuable information about the age of a sample, the elements present in a sample, and the processes that have occurred in the sample's history. This information can be used in a variety of scientific fields, including geology, archaeology, and environmental science.

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