To write the nuclear equation for the alpha decay of Radium-226, you need to understand the process of alpha decay. During alpha decay, an alpha particle (which is a helium-4 nucleus, consisting of 2 protons and 2 neutrons) is emitted from the nucleus of the parent atom.
Here is the nuclear equation for the alpha decay of Radium-226:
1. The parent isotope undergoing alpha decay is Radium-226, represented as ^{226}_{88}Ra.
2. An alpha particle is emitted during the decay, which is symbolized as ^{4}_{2}He.
3. The daughter isotope formed after the decay is Radon-222, denoted as ^{222}_{86}Rn.
Putting it all together, the nuclear equation for the alpha decay of Radium-226 is:
^{226}_{88}Ra → ^{222}_{86}Rn + ^{4}_{2}He
This equation shows that Radium-226 decays into Radon-222 by emitting an alpha particle (helium nucleus). This process helps to stabilize the parent nucleus by reducing its atomic number and mass number.
