Chapter 30, Problem 62A

To determine

To Explain:

Nuclear reaction for alpha decay of $Rn$ .

Answer to Problem 62A

The nuclear reaction for alpha decay of $Rn$ is $Rn\to He+Po$ .

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Alpha decay is a kind of radioactive decay in which the particles having two neutrons and two protons are removed from the nucleus. It is also an emission of an alpha particle $\left(\alpha \right)$ .

The alpha particle which is released is also known as the helium nucleus. The mass of alpha particle is generally very large and it consists of a positive charge.

In the reaction of $Rn$ alpha decay takes place. Alpha decay is given by the equation,

  $X\to Y+\frac{4}{2}He$

Where,

  $X$ is known as the parent nucleus

  $Y$ is called as the daughter nucleus

  $\frac{4}{2}He$ is the alpha particles which are released

When Radon $Rn$ undergoes alpha decay Polonium isotope $Po$ is produced and the alpha particles $He$ of helium are released.

Thus the equation can be written as,

  $Rn\to He+Po$

Hence, for alpha decay nuclear reaction of $Rn$ is $Rn\to He+Po$ .