RE: Alpha Decay Answer

[Dan Hoffman <dhoffman@PANGEA-GROUP.COM>]

Mike-

This did not help.  Since two protons are lost, it is assumed that two

electrons are also lost to maintain neutral charge.  Those are the two

"excess electrons" I was referring to.



Dan



- -----Original Message-----

From: Michael McDonald [mailto:mija642@surfree.com]

Sent: Friday, March 16, 2001 5:08 PM

To: dhoffman@PANGEA-GROUP.COM

Subject: Alpha Decay Answer





Dan,



When you have a radioactive material that decays by alpha emission, the

alpha is always emitted from the nucleus of the atom, where there are no

electrons to start with.  Think about the atomic mass number going down

by 4 (A-4) and the mass number going down by 2 (Z-2).  Four AMU, two

from neutrons and two from protons.  No electrons!  So, no need to worry

about the electrons!



Now, if you want to challenge your techs, ask them "If you breathe in

enough alpha radiation, will your voice squeak like Donald Duck?"

Aren't you inhaling a helium atom?  And doesn't helium make you squeak

when you breathe it in from a balloon?



Hope this helps.



Mike

mija642@surfree.com

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