Nuclear Chemistry - Solving U-238 Activity & Decay Energy

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the activity and decay energy of 1.00 mg of Uranium-238 (U-238) as it decays to Thorium-234. The correct activity calculation involves using the decay constant, which is derived from the half-life of U-238, resulting in an activity of approximately 4.27 x 10-6 J/K. For the decay energy, the mass defect must be accurately calculated, leading to an energy release of 0.0449 x 9 x 1010 J. The importance of including units in calculations is emphasized, as it is crucial for clarity and correctness.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of radioactive decay and half-life concepts
  • Familiarity with nuclear mass calculations
  • Knowledge of energy conversion from mass defect
  • Proficiency in unit conversion and dimensional analysis
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the half-life and decay constant of Uranium-238
  • Learn about mass defect and binding energy in nuclear chemistry
  • Explore the calculation of activity in curies for different isotopes
  • Review the significance of units in scientific calculations
USEFUL FOR

Students in nuclear chemistry, educators teaching radioactive decay, and professionals involved in nuclear energy research will benefit from this discussion.

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Homework Statement


Consider 238U which undergoes natural radioactive decay to form thorium-234
a)What is the activity, in curies, of 1.00 mg of U-238?
B)What is the energy in kilojoules associated wuth the decay of 1.00 mg of 238U? The nuvlear mass of throium-235 is 234.0437

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


A0
0.693/(1.62*105)
=4.27*10-6 j/k
1*10-3*(1/238 g)*(6.022*1023/1 mol)
=2.53*108
my teacher marked this wrong, i don't know why!

B)E=0.0449(9*1010)
m=(234.0437+4.00150)-238=239.93558
 
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You expect us to guess what you did and what are these numbers?

What if I will tell you that 1.521211? Does it make any sense without context?

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=Borek;2727085]You expect us to guess what you did and what are these numbers?

What if I will tell you that 1.521211? Does it make any sense without context?

Agreed; your answers don't even have units.