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Alpha decay requires two protons and two neutrons. Hydrogen only has one proton.

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14y ago
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5mo ago

Alpha decay is a process where an atom emits an alpha particle, which is a helium nucleus consisting of 2 protons and 2 neutrons. Since a hydrogen atom only has one proton, it cannot undergo alpha decay as it lacks the necessary particle combination to release an alpha particle.

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Q: Why doesn't alpha decay occur for hydrogen?
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What types of decay processes must occur for 218Po to decay into 214Po and then into 210Po?

The decay processes for 218Po to decay into 214Po involve alpha decay. In alpha decay, 218Po emits an alpha particle (Helium-4 nucleus) to become 214Po. Similarly, for 214Po to decay into 210Po, alpha decay also occurs where 214Po emits an alpha particle to transform into 210Po.


Why does alpha and beta decay more commonly occur in radioisotopes?

Because the less protons are in an atom the quicker it decays.


Is the helium nucleus a byproduct of fission?

No, the helium nucleus, also called an alpha particle, is not a byproduct of fission. Alpha particles are commonly emitted during processes such as radioactive decay or in fusion reactions. Fission typically produces lighter elements, such as fragments of uranium or plutonium nuclei.


Why branching decay occur in thorium series?

Branching decay occurs in the thorium series because there are multiple pathways for the decay of thorium nuclei. Thorium can decay through alpha decay, beta decay, gamma decay, and other processes, leading to different end products with varying probabilities. These branching decay pathways contribute to the overall complexity of the thorium decay chain.


When is it possible for decay not to occur?

Decay may not occur when an object is in a stable and balanced state, with its constituent particles being kept intact. This can happen in certain highly stable isotopes or in a system where decay processes are inhibited by external factors or conditions.

Related questions

What types of decay processes must occur for 218Po to decay into 214Po and then into 210Po?

The decay processes for 218Po to decay into 214Po involve alpha decay. In alpha decay, 218Po emits an alpha particle (Helium-4 nucleus) to become 214Po. Similarly, for 214Po to decay into 210Po, alpha decay also occurs where 214Po emits an alpha particle to transform into 210Po.


Why does alpha and beta decay more commonly occur in radioisotopes?

Because the less protons are in an atom the quicker it decays.


Why alpha emission occur first?

Alpha emission typically occurs first in the process of radioactive decay because alpha particles are the most massive and least penetrating type of radiation. This means they are more likely to be trapped within the nucleus and can escape easily compared to beta or gamma radiation.


What is the nuclear decay equation for uranium-238 to strontium-90?

The equation for the beta decay of 87Kr is: 3687Kr --> 3787Rb + -10e where -10e represents a negative beta particle or electron.


What is the decay process does radium 226 undergo including the nuclear changes that occur?

Radium-226--------------------Radon-222 + alpha


What interaction between forces cause alpha decay to occur?

The strong nuclear force between protons and neutrons in the nucleus is not able to overcome the electromagnetic force that repels protons from each other. This repulsion can result in instability in heavier nuclei, leading to alpha decay in which an alpha particle (a helium-4 nucleus) is emitted.


Is the helium nucleus a byproduct of fission?

No, the helium nucleus, also called an alpha particle, is not a byproduct of fission. Alpha particles are commonly emitted during processes such as radioactive decay or in fusion reactions. Fission typically produces lighter elements, such as fragments of uranium or plutonium nuclei.


Types of decay?

The main types of decay are alpha decay, beta decay, and gamma decay. Alpha decay involves the emission of an alpha particle (two protons and two neutrons), beta decay involves the emission of a beta particle (an electron or positron), and gamma decay involves the emission of high-energy gamma rays. These processes occur in unstable atomic nuclei in order to achieve a more stable configuration.


How does alpha beta and gamma decay change the nucleus?

Gamma decay is the release of energy, but does not in itself change the nucleas Alpha decay is the loss of 2 protrons and 2 neutrons, lowering the atomic number by 2 and mass number by 4 Beta can occur as a result of a neutron turning into a protron, raising the atomic number by 1 and charge by 1


Why branching decay occur in thorium series?

Branching decay occurs in the thorium series because there are multiple pathways for the decay of thorium nuclei. Thorium can decay through alpha decay, beta decay, gamma decay, and other processes, leading to different end products with varying probabilities. These branching decay pathways contribute to the overall complexity of the thorium decay chain.


What gas helps decay to occur?

Any gas helps decay to occur.


What is released from the nucleus during gamma decay?

In gamma decay, high-energy gamma photons are released from the nucleus. These photons do not change the identity of the atom but are emitted to reduce excess energy after other forms of radioactive decay.