Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Atoms, nuclei and radiation

Atoms, nuclei and radiation — practice question

A radioactive nucleus releases an $\alpha$-particle or a $\beta^-$ particle, forming a new product nucleus. Which decay could have produced the product nucleus given?

  • A$^{226}_{88}\text{Ra} \xrightarrow{\alpha} \, ^{224}_{86}\text{Rn}$
  • B$^{238}_{92}\text{U} \xrightarrow{\alpha} \, ^{242}_{94}\text{Pu}$
  • C$^{228}_{88}\text{Ra} \xrightarrow{\beta^-} \, ^{228}_{87}\text{Fr}$
  • D$^{231}_{90}\text{Th} \xrightarrow{\beta^-} \, ^{231}_{91}\text{Pa}$

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 1-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme.

  • Full mark scheme, point by point
  • Step-by-step worked solution
  • Write your answer & get it marked instantly by AI