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What is the nuclear equation for alpha decay of Uranium-238?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
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exam_style
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Topic
Atoms and nuclear radiation
Question
What is the nuclear equation for alpha decay of Uranium-238?
Answer
The nuclear equation for the alpha decay of Uranium-238 is: 238/92 U → 234/90 Th + 4/2 He.
Explanation
This answer demonstrates an understanding of how to represent alpha decay using a nuclear equation, showing the correct mass and atomic numbers for both the parent and daughter nuclei, as well as the emitted alpha particle.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Alpha Decay Representation
Students often confuse the representation of alpha decay by not correctly identifying the emitted particles and their effects on mass and atomic numbers in the nuclear equation.
To fix this, students should practice writing nuclear equations for alpha decay, ensuring they decrease the mass number by 4 and the atomic number by 2, while correctly representing the emitted helium nucleus.
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