Determining # of Beta Decays from Alpha Decay

Thread starter Kim_Jong
Start date Apr 20, 2020
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Alpha Alpha decay Beta Decay

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the number of beta decays resulting from a series of alpha decays in a nuclear reaction involving Uranium-238. It establishes that 8 alpha decays occur, reducing the mass from 238 to 206. Following these alpha decays, the remaining number of protons is 76, leading to the conclusion that 6 beta decays will occur to stabilize the nucleus.

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Apr 20, 2020

Kim_Jong

Homework Statement: Consider a nuclear process in which U-238 undergoes several Alpha and Beta decays and becomes Pb-206. How many Alpha and Beta decays occur in this process?

Relevant Equations: .

Alpha particle has two protons and neutrons so mass = 4.

4x = 238 -206.

x = 1/4(238-206) = 8 Alpha decays.

How would I determine the number of Beta decays? Since the mass doesn't change here.

Last edited by a moderator: Apr 20, 2020

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Apr 20, 2020

etotheipi

How many protons are left if you do all the alpha decays first?

Apr 21, 2020

Kim_Jong

76. So there will be 6 Beta decays.

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