how to write a nuclear equation for the nuclear decay of Ra-226 to an isotope of radon-222
88Ra226 ==> 86Rn222 + yXz
You want to determine y and z and X
Subscripts must add up and superscripts must add up.
Subscripts: On the left we have 88. On the right we have 86; therefore, y must be 2.
Superscripts: On the left we have 226 and on the right we have 222; therefore, z must be 4.
Which particle has a mass of 4 and an atomic number of 2? That must be He so that's X.
See how easy that is.
To write a nuclear equation for the nuclear decay of Ra-226 to an isotope of radon-222, you need to follow a few steps:
Step 1: Identify the initial and final isotopes involved in the decay. In this case:
Initial isotope: Ra-226 (Radium-226)
Final isotope: Radon-222
Step 2: Determine the type of decay that is occurring. There are three main types: alpha decay, beta decay, and gamma decay.
In this case, Ra-226 decays through alpha decay. Alpha decay involves the emission of an alpha particle, which consists of two protons and two neutrons.
Step 3: Write the nuclear equation, showing the decay process. Here is the equation:
Ra-226 -> Rn-222 + He-4
In this equation:
- Ra-226 on the left side represents the initial isotope.
- Rn-222 on the right side represents the final isotope.
- He-4 represents the alpha particle released during decay.
So, the nuclear equation for the nuclear decay of Ra-226 to Radon-222 involves the release of an alpha particle.