Nuclear Physics help please (alpha decay of a Po-216 atom)

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on the alpha decay of a polonium-216 atom into lead-212 and an alpha particle, emphasizing the conservation of momentum and kinetic energy during the process. The user is uncertain about how to apply Einstein's equation E=mc^2, particularly regarding which mass to use for calculations. They seek clarification on comparing the momentum and kinetic energy of the original polonium atom with the decay products. The conversation highlights the need to calculate total energy before and after the decay, incorporating both kinetic energy and rest mass energy. Understanding these principles is crucial for solving the problem effectively.
Elon Musk
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Homework Statement
Can someone help me with the questions with modern physics (nuclear physics). I am studying modern physics right now, and I need help with this homework question.
Here is a link to the question:

[Link to external question/answer website deleted by the Mentors]
Relevant Equations
E = hf
K hf max = - f
h
p
l =
2 E = m
1619830011259.png

1619830062031.png

1619830107151.png
I think that when an atom of polonium (Po-216) is moving slowly enough that it can be considered to be at rest. The Po-216 undergoes alpha decay and becomes lead ( Ph-212 ), via the reaction 깝 Po → Pb + ta. After the decay. the lead atom is moving to the left with speed v. and the alpha particle is moving to the right with speed . The masses of the three isotopes involved in the decay are given below. Mm216 = 216.001915 u Ma 4.002603 Mpm 212 211991898 u ex 17. How do the momentum and kinetic energy of the polonium atom compare with the total momentum and kinetic energy of the decay products?

I think I should use E-mc^2 to use this problem, but I don't know what to use for mass. Is it the change I am mass?
 
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Elon Musk said:
I don't know what to use for mass. Is it the change I am mass?
Find the total energy before and after, the total being (sum of KEs) + (sum of rest masses)##\times mc^2##.
 

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