Q-value and kinetic energy of alpha particle in alpha decay.

In summary, the conversation discusses finding the qvalue and kinetic energy of an alpha particle emitted during alpha decay. The equations used are Q=(Mp-Md-Mα)amu and Q=Eα(1+Mα/Md), with given values resulting in Q=5.589 MeV and Eα=5.490 MeV. It is suggested to also consider the mass of electrons in the calculations.
  • #1
sudipmaity
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Homework Statement


The nuclear masses of parent and daughter nuclei are Mp= 226.025 amu and Md=222.017 amu.Mass of alpha particle is Mα=4.002amu.Find qvalue and kinetic energy of alpha particle emitted for the alpha decay.

Homework Equations


Q=(Mp -Md-Mα)amu...1
Assuming nucleus to be at rest as it is very heavy
Q=Eα(1+ Mα/Md)...2

The Attempt at a Solution


Putting given values in 1 i get Q=5.589MeV (1amu= 931.5MeV)
Substituting this in 2 i get Eα=5.490 MeV.
Have i done this correctly??
 
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  • #2
Thanks for the post! Sorry you aren't generating responses at the moment. Do you have any further information, come to any new conclusions or is it possible to reword the post?
 
  • #3
I think you should take into account the mass of the electrons as well. They are small but they will contribute as well
 

1. What is the Q-value in alpha decay?

The Q-value in alpha decay is the energy released during the decay process. It is calculated by taking the difference between the mass of the parent nucleus and the combined mass of the daughter nucleus and the alpha particle.

2. How is the Q-value related to the kinetic energy of the alpha particle?

The Q-value is directly related to the kinetic energy of the alpha particle. The kinetic energy of the alpha particle is equal to the Q-value minus the energy required to overcome the nuclear binding energy of the parent nucleus.

3. What factors affect the Q-value in alpha decay?

The Q-value in alpha decay is affected by the mass of the parent nucleus, the mass of the daughter nucleus, and the mass of the alpha particle. It is also influenced by the nuclear binding energies of the parent and daughter nuclei.

4. How is the Q-value of alpha decay calculated?

The Q-value of alpha decay is calculated using the Einstein's famous equation, E=mc^2. The mass of the parent nucleus and the combined mass of the daughter nucleus and alpha particle are used to calculate the energy released during the decay process.

5. What is the significance of the Q-value in alpha decay?

The Q-value in alpha decay is significant as it provides information about the stability of a nucleus. If the Q-value is positive, it means that the decay process is energetically favorable and the nucleus is unstable. On the other hand, if the Q-value is negative, the nucleus is stable and the decay process will not occur spontaneously.

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