Alpha particles as a fission product?

In summary, fission products have reduced masses and typically decay by gamma or beta emission, with occasional neutron emission. This is due to the absorption of a neutron, which can lead to fission or decay by gamma radiation and then alpha decay. The chart of nuclides shows this pattern, with most decay occurring through gamma or beta emission. This can be explained by the nuclear and Coulomb forces at play within the nucleus.
  • #1
kilele
2
0
Hello. Why isn't there alpha decay in fission reaction or fission fragments evolution ? is there only gamma and betas?
 
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  • #2
Transactinides do decay by alpha or beta decay, and some decay by spontaneous fission.

Fission products have significantly reduced masses peaked around 90 and 140 amu, so they most decay by gamma or beta emission, and occassionally neutron emission (delayed neutrons). The absorption of a neutron (by a fissile nuclide like U-233, U-235 or Pu-239) usually leads to a distortion of the nucleus resulting in fission. However a fissile nucleus can absorb a neutron and not fission, but decay by gamma radiation, and subsequently alpha decay. U-236 decays by alpha emission to Th-232.

http://www.nndc.bnl.gov/chart/reCenter.jsp?z=92&n=144 (select Zoom 1 if the details don't appear)
 
  • #3
Astronuc said:
Fission products have significantly reduced masses peaked around 90 and 140 amu, so they most decay by gamma or beta emission, and occassionally neutron emission (delayed neutrons).

Thanks Astronuc didnt know about this chart of nuclides.
so why they most decay by gamma or beta emission? could you provide some explanation based maybe on nuclear and coulomb forces?
 

1. What are alpha particles?

Alpha particles are a type of nuclear radiation that is emitted during the process of radioactive decay. They are made up of two protons and two neutrons, and have a positive charge.

2. How are alpha particles produced as a fission product?

During the process of nuclear fission, the nucleus of an atom is split into smaller fragments, which can include alpha particles. These particles are produced when heavier elements, such as uranium or plutonium, are split apart.

3. What are the properties of alpha particles as a fission product?

Alpha particles are highly energetic and have a relatively short range in air. They are also highly ionizing, which means they can cause damage to living cells and materials. However, they can be stopped by a sheet of paper or a few centimeters of air.

4. What are the potential risks associated with alpha particles as a fission product?

Alpha particles can be harmful if they are inhaled or ingested, as they can cause damage to living cells and potentially lead to health issues such as cancer. Therefore, proper precautions must be taken when handling materials that emit alpha particles.

5. How are alpha particles used in the field of nuclear energy?

Alpha particles are used in nuclear power plants as a source of energy. They are also used in some medical procedures, such as radioisotope therapy, and in industrial applications, such as detecting leaks in pipelines.

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