In nuclear physics, what particle is emitted in the alpha decay of Uranium-238 ()?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Helium-4 nucleus ()
- Step 1: Balance nucleon mass number: .
- Step 2: Balance atomic charge number: .
- Step 3: A particle with mass 4 and charge +2 is a Helium-4 nucleus (), known as an alpha particle.
Answer
Helium-4 nucleus (^4_2He).
Why not the others: Positron emission leaves mass unchanged; beta decay increases atomic number; gamma decay alters neither.
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