Concept explainers
(a)
Interpretation:
Balanced equation for the alpha decay of plutonium-239 has to be written.
(a)
Explanation of Solution
Alpha emission results in the formation of nucleus that has mass number less by 4 and
(b)
Interpretation:
Mass of plutonium-239 present after 1000 year has to be calculated.
(b)
Explanation of Solution
Given mass of plutonium-239 is
Decay rate constant can be calculated as shown below,
The mass of plutonium-239 that remains after 1000 years can be calculated as shown below,
Therefore, mass of plutonium present after 1000 years is
(c)
Interpretation:
Amount of energy given off by alpha emission of plutonium-239 has to be calculated.
(c)
Explanation of Solution
Change in mass for the alpha emission of plutonium-239 can be calculated as shown below,
Nuclear binding energy is calculated as shown below,
(d)
Interpretation:
Time required for the activity of plutonium-239 to decrease to
(d)
Explanation of Solution
Given mass of plutonium-239 is
Decay rate constant can be calculated as shown below,
Initial activity is
Time required is calculated as
(e)
Interpretation:
Radiation that is received by
(e)
Explanation of Solution
Given mass of plutonium-239 is
Decay rate constant can be calculated as shown below,
First-order rate law can be used to determine the mass of plutonium-239 after
Energy that is released can be calculated as shown below,
The emission in rads can be calculated as shown below,
Effective dose in rem can be calculated using the quality factor as shown below,
(f)
Interpretation:
The factors that has to be considered for burial and storage has to be commented.
(f)
Explanation of Solution
Time that is required to reduce the potency of plutonium-239 is thousands of years in macroscopic quantities. Thus the burial and storage of plutonium-239 has to be done in a remote location that will not be used for any other purpose. The burial unit has to be properly marked as dangerous and fenced. The site has to be inaccessible to the general public. This site also should have a minimal number of burrowing animal life and rooted plants. Apart from this air testing and periodic soil testing has to be feasible.
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Chapter 18 Solutions
Chemistry: The Molecular Science, Hybrid Edition (with OWLv2 24-Months Printed Access Card)
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