Direction of alpha particles/protons from isotope decay

In summary: If both particles have a positive momentum, then the sum of their momenta must be positive. So, theta must also be positive.
  • #1
Vitani11
275
3

Homework Statement


A stationary B nucleus decays into two alpha particles and a proton, and the speed of the proton is found to be 6.0x10^6 m/s. What is the magnitude and direction of the velocities of the alpha particles with respect to the proton?

Homework Equations


Unnecessary

The Attempt at a Solution



Velocity has been found... what would the direction be? I was thinking opposite of the proton because they both have a positive charge but there is TWO alpha particles instead of one so wouldn't they be deflected at some angle instead of directly in front or behind the proton?[/B]
 
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  • #2
Vitani11 said:

Homework Statement


A stationary B nucleus decays into two alpha particles and a proton, and the speed of the proton is found to be 6.0x10^6 m/s. What is the magnitude and direction of the velocities of the alpha particles with respect to the proton?

Homework Equations


Unnecessary

The Attempt at a Solution



Velocity has been found... what would the direction be? I was thinking opposite of the proton because they both have a positive charge but there is TWO alpha particles instead of one so wouldn't they be deflected at some angle instead of directly in front or behind the proton?[/B]
Just guessing here...
Suppose the particles leave with angle θ between the proton's path and that of each alpha particle, and the shape of the triangle they form is stable. I.e. their accelerations, velocities and distance moved stay in a fixed ratio. You have two unknowns, θ and that ratio. Considering the forces between them, you may be able to determine both.
 
  • #3
Using your guess... in this case do you think it would be okay to do the arctan of the alpha particles velocity over the protons velocity for theta? Theta would be the same for each alpha particle.
 
  • #4
Vitani11 said:
Using your guess... in this case do you think it would be okay to do the arctan of the alpha particles velocity over the protons velocity for theta? Theta would be the same for each alpha particle.
Consider momentum conservation.
 

1. What causes the direction of alpha particles/protons from isotope decay?

The direction of alpha particles and protons from isotope decay is caused by the strong nuclear force. This force is responsible for holding the nucleus of an atom together and also determines the direction in which particles are emitted during the decay process.

2. Can the direction of alpha particles/protons from isotope decay be controlled?

No, the direction of alpha particles and protons from isotope decay cannot be controlled. The direction is determined by the position and movement of the particles within the nucleus, which is random and cannot be altered.

3. How is the direction of alpha particles/protons from isotope decay measured?

The direction of alpha particles and protons from isotope decay can be measured using a device called a particle detector. This device can track the path of the particles and determine their direction of emission.

4. Does the direction of alpha particles/protons from isotope decay vary between different isotopes?

Yes, the direction of alpha particles and protons from isotope decay can vary between different isotopes. This is because the number and arrangement of particles within the nucleus can differ between isotopes, resulting in different decay processes and directions of emission.

5. What are the potential dangers associated with the direction of alpha particles/protons from isotope decay?

The direction of alpha particles and protons from isotope decay can pose a danger if they are emitted towards living cells in the body. These particles have high energy and can cause damage to cells and DNA, leading to potential health risks such as radiation sickness or cancer.

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