Short answerEasy2 marks
Complete the following radioactive reaction: X → Y + ⁴₂He → ²³⁴₉₁Z + ⁰₋₁e
Topic: Alpha and beta decay equations
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Answer
Solution diagram
Exam answer
²³⁸₉₀X → ²³⁴₈₈Y + ⁴₂He; ²³⁴₈₈Y → ²³⁴₈₉Z + ⁰₋₁e.
Explanation
Alpha decay reduces mass number by 4 and atomic number by 2; beta-minus decay keeps mass number unchanged and raises atomic number by 1.
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