Question

The total number of α and β particles emitted in the nuclear reaction \[\ce{^238_92U -> ^214_82Pb}\] is ______.

Options

• 2

• 4

• 6

• 8

Answer 1

The total number of α and β particles emitted in the nuclear reaction \[\ce{^238_92U -> ^214_82Pb}\] is 8.

Explanation:

α = `(238 - 214)/4 = 24/4` = 6

β = 82 – (92 – 6 × 2) = 82 – 80 = 2

∴ α + β = 6 + 2 = 8