Question

What are two elements that produce background radiation on earth and what do their decay equations look like?

Answer 1

The two elements that produce background radiation on earth are Radon and Uranium. Airborne radon can decay on its own. Radon undergoes alpha decay to produce Polonium. Uranium naturally undergoes alpha decay to produce Thorium.

Answer 2

Answer:

Radon and Uranium            

Explanation:

Two elements that produce background radiation are: Radon and Uranium. These elements are present in soil or air and naturally decay to form the elements as shown below:

Decay equation of Radon:

$^{222} _{86}Rn \rightarrow ^{218} _{84}Po + ^4 _2 He$

Decay Equation of Uranium:

$^{234} _{92}U  \rightarrow ^{230} _{90}Th + ^4 _2 He$