Question detail
Write the nuclear equation for the alpha decay of Uranium-238, including isotope notation.
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
Question
Type
exam_style
Style
Topic
Atoms and nuclear radiation
Question
Write the nuclear equation for the alpha decay of Uranium-238, including isotope notation.
Answer
The nuclear equation for the alpha decay of Uranium-238 is: 238/92 U → 234/90 Th + 4/2 He.
Explanation
This question assesses the ability to apply isotope notation in a nuclear equation, specifically for alpha decay, demonstrating knowledge of how mass and atomic numbers change during the decay process.
Common mistake
Common Mistake in Isotope Notation
Students often confuse the mass number and atomic number when writing isotope notation, leading to incorrect representations of isotopes.
To fix this, remember that the mass number is the total number of protons and neutrons, while the atomic number is just the number of protons. Always place the mass number at the top left and the atomic number at the bottom left of the element symbol.
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