Question

Write a balanced nuclear equation for the following:

The nuclide uranium-238 undergoes alpha emission.

Answer 1

²³⁸₉₂U → ²³⁴₉₀Th + ⁴₂He + Energy

Step-by-step explanation:

Hello,

When uranium undergoes an alpha decay, it's atomic number is reduced by 2 while it atomic mass is reduced by 4 similar to the elements helium (He) and sometimes alpha decay is represented by a helium atom.

Equation of decay

²³⁸₉₂U → ²³⁴₉₀Th + ⁴₂He + Energy

When uranium undergoes an alpha decay, it loses an alpha particle similar to a helium atom and forms thorium which has an atomic number of 90 and atomic mass of 234 with the release of energy.