4.2.2 Nuclear Equations

In this lesson, we will learn how to represent radioactive decay using nuclear equations. Nuclear equations allow us to describe the process of radioactive decay and understand the changes that occur within atomic nuclei.

Representation of Nuclear Particles

• Alpha Particle: An alpha particle can be represented by the symbol 4He2. It consists of two protons and two neutrons, making it identical to a helium nucleusA membrane-bound organelle in eukaryotic cells that contains DNA..
• Beta Particle: A beta particle can be represented by the symbol 0e-1. It is a high-speed electron that is emitted from the nucleus when a neutron transforms into a proton.

Alpha Decay

In alpha decay, an alpha particle is emitted from the nucleus. This causes both the mass and the charge of the nucleus to decrease. Here's an example:

219radon86 → 215polonium84 + 4He2

In this equation, an alpha particle (4He2) is emitted from the radon nucleus (219radon86), resulting in the formation of a polonium nucleus (215polonium84).

Beta Decay

In beta decay, a beta particle is emitted from the nucleus. This does not cause a change in the mass of the nucleus, but it does cause the charge of the nucleus to increase. Here's an example:

14carbon6 → 14nitrogen7 + 0e-1

In this equation, a beta particle (0e-1) is emitted from the carbon nucleus (14carbon6), leading to the formation of a nitrogen nucleus (14nitrogen7).

Writing Balanced Nuclear Equations

Writing balanced nuclear equations involves checking that the total atomic numbers and mass numbers on both side of the equation are equal:

• The atomic number of the parent nucleus (left side of the equation) should be equal to the atomic number of the alpha/beta particle plus the atomic number of the daughter nucleus (right side of the equation).
• The mass number of the parent nucleus (left side of the equation) should be equal to the mass number of the alpha/beta particle plus the mass number of the daughter nucleus (right side of the equation).

Gamma Radiation

Gamma Rays: The emission of a gamma ray does not cause a change in the mass or the charge of the nucleus. Gamma rays are electromagnetic radiation emitted from the nucleus.

Conclusion

In alpha decay, an alpha particle is emitted from the nucleus, resulting in a decrease in both mass and charge. In beta decay, a beta particle is emitted, causing an increase in the nucleus's charge but not its mass. When writing balanced nuclear equations, it is crucial to ensure that the total atomic numbers and mass numbers on both sides of the equation are equal. Additionally, gamma radiation, represented by gamma rays, does not cause a change in the mass or charge of the nucleus, as it is electromagnetic radiation emitted from the nucleus.