Question

The following equation is an example of decay?

232/90 TH---4/2 HE +228/88 RA?

Answer 1

Alpha decay

Step-by-step explanation:

• Alpha decay is one of the three major types of decays, others being, beta decay and gamma decay.
• When a radioactive isotope undergoes alpha decay it emits alpha particles. An alpha particle is equivalent to the nucleus of Helium atom.
• Therefore, an atom undergoing decay, its atomic mass is decreased by 4 and its atomic number is decreased by 2.
• Thus, since 232/90 Th, has undergone alpha decay its mass number is reduced by 4 to 228 and its atomic number by 2 to 88, and becomes 228/88 Ra.