Rate of emission of alpha particle in uranium decay

In summary, the rate of emission of alpha particles from 10 grams of U-238 undergoing alpha emission to Th-234 is calculated using the equation A = ln 2 / (half-life) x (number of particles of U-238). The given half-life of 109 years is incorrect and should be 4.468 x 109 years. The resulting emission rate is 5.56 x 105 Bq.
  • #1
songoku
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Homework Statement


U - 238 is undergoing alpha emission into Th - 234. U - 238 has half – life of 109 years. Calculate the emission rate of alpha when uranium has mass of 10 grams

Homework Equations


A = λN
A = A0 (1/2)n , n = t / half - life

The Attempt at a Solution


Not sure how to do it but here is my attempt:

Rate of emission of alpha = rate of decay of uranium = activity of uranium.

mass = 10 gram --> number of particle of uranium = 10/238 x 6.02 x 1023 = 2.529 x 1022

half - life = 109 years = 3.154 x 1016 s

A = ln 2 / (3.154 x 1016) x 2.529 x 1022 = 5.56 x 105 Bq

Is this correct? Thanks
 
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  • #2
The given half life is wrong, but if you use this wrong value it is correct.
 
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  • #3
I searched through google and found out that the half - life should be 4.468 x 109 years. So I only need to change the value of half - life.

Thank you mfb
 

FAQ: Rate of emission of alpha particle in uranium decay

What is the rate of emission of alpha particles in uranium decay?

The rate of emission of alpha particles in uranium decay is dependent on the half-life of the uranium isotope. The half-life refers to the amount of time it takes for half of the atoms in a sample of uranium to decay and emit an alpha particle. The rate of emission can vary depending on the specific isotope of uranium, but it typically ranges from a few alpha particles per second to a few hundred per second.

How does the rate of emission of alpha particles change over time in uranium decay?

The rate of emission of alpha particles decreases over time as the uranium atoms decay and become more stable. This is because there are fewer unstable atoms left to emit alpha particles. The rate of emission follows an exponential decay curve, with the number of emitted alpha particles decreasing by half with each half-life of the uranium isotope.

What factors can affect the rate of emission of alpha particles in uranium decay?

The rate of emission of alpha particles can be affected by external factors such as temperature, pressure, and the presence of other elements. These factors can alter the stability of the uranium atoms and therefore impact the rate of decay. Additionally, the specific isotope of uranium can also affect the rate of emission.

What is the significance of studying the rate of emission of alpha particles in uranium decay?

Studying the rate of emission of alpha particles in uranium decay is important for understanding the properties and behavior of radioactive elements. It can also provide valuable information for applications such as nuclear energy and radiometric dating. Additionally, changes in the rate of emission can indicate potential environmental or health hazards associated with exposure to radioactive materials.

How is the rate of emission of alpha particles in uranium decay measured?

The rate of emission of alpha particles in uranium decay is typically measured using a device called a Geiger counter. This instrument detects and counts the number of alpha particles emitted by a sample of uranium over a specific period of time. Other methods, such as mass spectrometry, can also be used to measure the rate of emission and provide more precise data on the energy and type of alpha particles emitted.

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