Figure 24.35 shows part of the decay series of a...

Figure 24.35 shows part of the decay series of a radioisotope. For each segment on the graph, tell whether alpha decay or beta decay occurs, and identify the
change in atomic number and mass number.

Key Concepts

Radioactive Decay

This is the process by which unstable atomic nuclei lose energy by emitting radiation. The decay can take several forms, including alpha and beta decay, and is fundamental to nuclear physics and various applications such as radiometric dating and nuclear energy production.

Decay Series

A decay series is a sequence of successive radioactive decays, where one unstable nucleus transforms into another, leading gradually to a stable nucleus. Understanding decay series is important for tracing the transformation and lifespan of radioisotopes.

Alpha Decay

Alpha decay is a type of radioactive decay in which an unstable nucleus emits an alpha particle, consisting of two protons and two neutrons. This process decreases the atomic number by 2 and the mass number by 4, significantly altering the identity of the element.

Beta Decay

Beta decay involves the transformation of a neutron into a proton (or vice versa), accompanied by the emission of a beta particle, which is either an electron or a positron, and a neutrino. This decay alters the atomic number by 1 while the mass number remains unchanged, modifying the element without changing its overall mass significantly.

Change in Atomic Number

The atomic number represents the number of protons in an atom's nucleus. Changes in the atomic number occur during radioactive decay when protons are either lost, gained, or created, fundamentally altering the element's identity.

Change in Mass Number

The mass number is the sum of the protons and neutrons in the nucleus. During decay processes such as alpha decay, the mass number changes because nucleons are emitted from the nucleus, affecting the overall mass of the resulting nucleus.

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