Alpha & Proton Decay: Explaining Unequal Rates

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the rates of alpha and proton decay in nuclei with mass number greater than 210. Participants explore the reasons behind the observed disparity in the frequency of these decay processes, considering factors such as binding energy and quantum mechanics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes that all nuclei with A > 210 are alpha emitters, yet very few emit protons spontaneously, questioning why proton decay is not more common.
  • Another participant suggests examining the binding energy curve as a potential explanation for the observed decay rates.
  • A third participant reiterates the initial observation about alpha and proton decay, adding that some of these nuclei undergo beta decay instead of alpha decay.
  • It is mentioned that the binding energy of alpha particles provides more energy for the decay process, which may facilitate alpha decay through quantum-mechanical tunneling.
  • A participant offers to provide the alpha decay rate, indicating that it may also apply to protons, though this is not elaborated upon.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the mechanisms and reasons for the unequal rates of alpha and proton decay, indicating that the discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing perspectives.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not clarify the specific assumptions regarding binding energy or the conditions under which proton decay might occur, leaving these aspects open for further exploration.

majid313mirzae
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All nuclei with A > 210 are alpha emitters, yet very few emit protons spontaneously.
Yet both decays lower the Coulomb energy of the nucleus. Why is
proton decay not more common?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Look at the binding energy curve.
 
majid313mirzae said:
All nuclei with A > 210 are alpha emitters, yet very few emit protons spontaneously.
Yet both decays lower the Coulomb energy of the nucleus. Why is
proton decay not more common?

Some of these nuclei undergo beta decay, not alpha.
 
The binding energy of alpha particles means more energy available to make the decay happen -- it happens by quantum-mechanical tunneling.

I could dig up the alpha decay rate if anyone is interested - it also works for protons.
 

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