Question

How many alpha and beta particles are emitted when Uranium 92U238 decays to lead 82Pb206

• A. 3 alpha particles and 5 beta particles
• B. 6 alpha particles and 4 beta particles
• C. 4 alpha particles and 5 beta particles
• D. 8 alpha particles and 6 beta particles

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

8 alpha particles and 6 beta particles

Answer 2

$\c{^{238}_{92}U \rightarrow ^{82}_{20}Pb + x^4_2He + y(^{-1}_0e)}$

$⇒$ $206 + 4x = 238 …(1)$
and $82 + 2x – y = 92 …(2)$
⇒$$ x = 8 and $y = 6$