Determine the identity of the daughter nuclide from the alpha decay of Po.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In alpha decay, an alpha particle (consisting of two protons and two neutrons) is emitted from the nucleus. This results in a decrease of two protons and two neutrons in the nucleus, leading to a new element with an atomic number that is two less and an atomic mass that is four less than the parent nuclide. 
The parent nuclide, 11Po, has an atomic number of 84 and a mass number of 211. 
Thus, the daughter nuclide will have an atomic number of 82 and a mass number of 207. 
The only option that matches this description is option D, which corresponds to 11Pb.

Determine the Identity of the Daughter Nuclide from the Alpha