226Ac can decay by any of three different nuclear processes: a emission, b emission, or electron capture. Write a balanced nuclear equation for the decay of 226Ac by each process.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the type of decay processes involved: alpha (α) emission, beta (β) emission, and electron capture.
2. For alpha emission: Write the nuclear equation by subtracting 4 from the mass number and 2 from the atomic number of the parent nucleus (Ac). The product will be a new element with these adjusted numbers and an alpha particle (He nucleus, ^4_2He).
3. For beta emission: Write the nuclear equation by keeping the mass number the same and increasing the atomic number of the parent nucleus (Ac) by 1. The product will be a new element with these numbers and a beta particle (electron, ^0_{-1}e).
4. For electron capture: Write the nuclear equation by keeping the mass number the same and decreasing the atomic number of the parent nucleus (Ac) by 1. The product will be a new element with these numbers and the emission of an electron neutrino (^0_0ν_e).
5. Ensure that the sum of the mass numbers and the sum of the atomic numbers are equal on both sides of the equation for each decay process to maintain the law of conservation of mass and charge.

Key Concepts

Nuclear Decay Processes

Nuclear decay processes refer to the mechanisms by which unstable atomic nuclei lose energy and particles to achieve stability. The primary types include alpha (α) decay, where an alpha particle is emitted; beta (β) decay, which involves the emission of beta particles (electrons or positrons); and electron capture, where an electron is absorbed by the nucleus, converting a proton into a neutron.

Balanced Nuclear Equations

A balanced nuclear equation represents the transformation of one element into another during a nuclear reaction, ensuring that the total number of protons and neutrons is conserved. This involves adjusting the atomic numbers and mass numbers of the reactants and products to reflect the particles emitted or absorbed during the decay process.

Alpha and Beta Particles

Alpha particles consist of two protons and two neutrons, making them relatively heavy and positively charged, while beta particles are high-energy, high-speed electrons or positrons emitted during beta decay. Understanding the nature of these particles is crucial for writing accurate nuclear equations, as they determine the changes in atomic and mass numbers during the decay processes.