If a nucleus of Th absorbs a neutron and the resulting nucleus undergoes two successive beta decays (emitting electrons), what nucleus results?

Question

If a nucleus of  Th absorbs a neutron and the resulting nucleus undergoes two successive beta decays (emitting electrons), what nucleus results?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When a nucleus of 11ea82ef_4789_a905_aa40_a5acd26a382f_TB6000_11 Th absorbs a neutron, it becomes 11e382ef_4789_a905_aa40_a5acd26a382f_TB6000_12 Th.

In the first beta decay, a neutron in the nucleus converts to a proton, and an electron and an antineutrino are emitted. This means the nucleus becomes 11e392ef_4789_a905_aa40_a5acd26a382f_TB6000_12 Pa.

In the second beta decay, another neutron in the nucleus converts to a proton, and another electron and antineutrino are emitted. This means the nucleus becomes 11dce2ef_4789_a905_aa40_a5acd26a382f_TB6000_13 U.

Therefore, the resulting nucleus is uranium-233, choice D.

If a Nucleus of Th Absorbs a Neutron and the Resulting