A radioactive atom has 98 protons and 249 nucleons.If it undergoes alpha decay,what are the number of protons and nucleons,respectively,in the daughter nucleus?
A) 100, 245
B) 94, 247
C) 96, 245
D) 96, 247
E) 100, 249

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Alpha decay involves the emission of an alpha particle, which consists of 2 protons and 2 neutrons. Therefore, the daughter nucleus will have 2 fewer protons and 2 fewer nucleons than the original. Starting with 98 protons and 249 nucleons, after alpha decay, it will have 96 protons and 245 nucleons.

A Radioactive Atom Has 98 Protons and 249 Nucleons