Question

The particles emitted in the decay of ${}_{92}^{238}U$ to ${}_{92}^{234}U$

• A. $2\alpha$ and $2\beta$
• B. $1\alpha$ and $2\beta$
• C. $1\alpha$ and $1\beta$
• D. $1\alpha$ only

Answer 1

The correct option is B $1\alpha$ and $2\beta$

During $1$ $\alpha$ particle decay, mass number and atomic number of the parent nucleus decreases by $4$ and $2$, respectively.

During $1$ $\beta$ particle decay, atomic number of the parent nucleus increases by $1$ whereas mass number remains the same.

Thus the required nucleus reaction : ${}_{92}^{238}U{\to }_{90}^{234}Th+\alpha {\to }_{92}^{234}U+2\beta$

Hence $1\alpha$ and $2\beta$ particles will be emitted during the above reaction.