For alpha decay to cause a loss in mass, such as that in the uranium 238 conversion to thorium 234, what must the atomic weight of the alpha particle be?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

During alpha decay, an alpha particle is emitted which has a mass number of 4 and an atomic number of 2. This means it consists of two protons and two neutrons, making its atomic weight equal to 4. In order for uranium 238 to convert to thorium 234 through alpha decay, an alpha particle must be emitted, resulting in a loss of mass of 4 units. Therefore, the atomic weight of the alpha particle must be 4.

For Alpha Decay to Cause a Loss in Mass, Such