Question

Plutonium- 241 undergoes a 13-step decay series. If an alpha particle is emitted in the first step, what is the daughter product?

Short answer

The daughter product is Uranium-237.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Alpha Decay

In alpha decay, an alpha particle, which consists of 2 protons and 2 neutrons (effectively a helium nucleus), is emitted from the nucleus of an atom. This results in the atom's atomic number decreasing by 2 and its mass number decreasing by 4.

Determine Plutonium-241 Characteristics

Plutonium-241 has an atomic number of 94 and a mass number of 241. This means it has 94 protons and 241 total nucleons (protons and neutrons combined).

Calculate Changes in Atomic and Mass Numbers

After the emission of an alpha particle, the atomic number of Plutonium-241 decreases by 2, leading to 94 - 2 = 92. The mass number decreases by 4, so 241 - 4 = 237.

Identify the New Element

An atomic number of 92 corresponds to the element Uranium. Therefore, the daughter element after this alpha decay is Uranium-237.

Key concepts

Plutonium-241

Plutonium-241 is a fascinating isotope belonging to the element Plutonium, which is part of the actinide series in the periodic table. It is recognized for its radioactive properties and significant applications in nuclear chemistry. Plutonium-241, identified by the atomic number 94 and a mass number of 241, comprises 94 protons and 147 neutrons. These characteristics mark it as one of the various isotopes of Plutonium, each of which possesses unique nuclear characteristics.

The presence of Plutonium-241 is critical in nuclear reactors, where it contributes to the generation of energy due to its ability to undergo fission. One of its unique features is its capacity to undergo radioactive decay, transforming into different elements through processes such as alpha decay.
Alpha decay involves the loss of an alpha particle consisting of two protons and two neutrons, which alters the identity of the atom. This process reduces Plutonium-241's atomic number by two units and its mass number by four units, changing it into another element, an aspect crucial for understanding nuclear reaction chains.

Uranium-237

Uranium-237 is the product formed when Plutonium-241 emits an alpha particle in a nuclear decay process. An intriguing part of nuclear chemistry, this transition highlights how elements can transform under specific conditions. After the decay, Uranium-237 emerges with an atomic number of 92 and a mass number of 237.

Here’s what happens during the alpha decay from Plutonium-241:

• **Atomic Number Change:** The atomic number decreases from 94 to 92.
• **Mass Number Change:** The mass number decreases from 241 to 237.

These changes mean that the element transitions from Plutonium to Uranium. Uranium-237, however, is unstable and often undergoes further decay pathways. By examining its properties, scientists can trace sequences of reactions significant in fields like nuclear energy production and weapon technology.
Uranium itself holds a critical place in energy generation, especially for its fissionable isotope Uranium-235. Though Uranium-237 is not directly used in these applications, understanding its formation provides insight into broader nuclear cycles.

Nuclear Chemistry

Nuclear chemistry focuses on chemical processes that involve changes in the nucleus of an atom, distinct from traditional chemistry which generally involves only electron interactions. It encompasses a wide range of phenomena, including radioactivity, nuclear decay processes like that of Plutonium-241, and the principles governing nuclear reactors.

This branch of chemistry helps us understand how isotopes decay, releasing energy and transforming into other elements. These transformations occur through processes such as:

• **Alpha Decay:** Emission of helium nuclei, decreasing the atomic and mass numbers.
• **Beta Decay:** Conversion of neutrons into protons and electrons, altering the atomic number.
• **Gamma Decay:** Emission of gamma rays, leading to the lowering of the nucleus's energy state.

In the context of Plutonium-241 and Uranium-237, nuclear chemistry explains how these elements undergo transformation through a series of decay steps. This knowledge is central not only in theoretical studies but also in practical applications such as nuclear power plant operations and radiopharmaceuticals.
Nuclear chemistry also delves into the safety measures required to handle radioactive materials, emphasizing the importance of thorough research and adherence to safety protocols to harness the benefits of nuclear technology effectively.