Joe's Uranium Problem: Alpha Particle Emission & Final Nucleus Mass

AI Thread Summary
The discussion addresses a problem involving the decay of a Uranium nucleus (232/92) that emits an alpha particle with a kinetic energy of 5.32 MeV. The reaction produces a Helium nucleus (4/2 He) and Thorium (228/90 Th). Participants clarify that the kinetic energy of the emitted alpha particle represents the energy released during the reaction. This energy can be used to calculate the change in mass of the final atom. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding nuclear reactions and energy transformations.
josephcollins
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Here I have a problem:

A 232/92 Uranium nucleus emits an alpha particle with kinetic energy=5.32MeV. What is the final nucleus and what is the approximate mass(in units) of the final atom.

I can write the equation for the reaction, this will give 4/2 He and 228/90 Th. If the alpha particle has KE=5.32MeV then is this the energy emitted in the reaction? If this is then I can obtain the change in mass. Is this correct? Any help is welcomed, thx. Joe
 
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