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CE Predict/Explain Consider a nucleus that undergoes ?

Chapter 32, Problem 13P

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QUESTION:

Problem 13P

CE Predict/Explain Consider a nucleus that undergoes α decay. (a) Is the radius of the resulting daughter nucleus greater than, less than, or equal to the radius of the original nucleus? (b) Choose the test explanation from among the following:

I. The decay adds an alpha particle to the nucleus, causing its radius to increase.

II. When the nucleus undergoes decay it ejects two neutrons and two protons. This decreases the number of nucleons in the nucleus, and therefore its radius will decrease.

III. An α decay leaves the number of nucleons unchanged. As a result, the radius of the nucleus stays the same.

Questions & Answers

QUESTION:

Problem 13P

CE Predict/Explain Consider a nucleus that undergoes α decay. (a) Is the radius of the resulting daughter nucleus greater than, less than, or equal to the radius of the original nucleus? (b) Choose the test explanation from among the following:

I. The decay adds an alpha particle to the nucleus, causing its radius to increase.

II. When the nucleus undergoes decay it ejects two neutrons and two protons. This decreases the number of nucleons in the nucleus, and therefore its radius will decrease.

III. An α decay leaves the number of nucleons unchanged. As a result, the radius of the nucleus stays the same.

ANSWER:

Step 1 of 3

The radius of a nucleus depends upon the total number of nucleons  that it contains (equation 32-4). Alpha decay involves the emission of four nucleons from the nucleus. Use these facts to answer the question.

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