Chapter 19, Problem 19.49SP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The number of $\alpha$ particles and $\beta$ particles emitted in the $11-$ step decay of ${}^{235}U$ into ${}^{207}Pb$ must be found out.

Concept introduction:

1. When an alpha( $\alpha$ ) particle is emitted from any radioactive element, the product has an atomic number two( $2$ ) units less and a mass number four ( $4$) units less than that of parent element.
2. When an beta( $\beta$ ) particle is emitted from any radioactive element, the product has an atomic number one( $1$) unit greater and a mass number is unchanged than that of parent element.

Given:

${}^{235}U$ is a radioisotope which by a $11-$ step decayyields ${}^{207}Pb$.