Nuclear Decay Equation of Polonium-210 Undergoing Alpha Decay

Polonium-210 is a radioactive isotope that undergoes alpha decay. In this process, an alpha particle (which is a helium nucleus with two protons and two neutrons) is emitted from the nucleus of the polonium-210 atom.

The nuclear decay equation for polonium-210 undergoing alpha decay is as follows:

210Po -> 206Pb + 4He

In this equation, the polonium-210 atom decays into lead-206 and a helium-4 nucleus. The atomic number of the polonium decreases by 2, while the mass number decreases by 4 due to the emission of the alpha particle.

This process is commonly observed in heavy nuclei, where the emission of alpha particles helps in achieving a more stable nuclear configuration. The decay products formed after the emission of the alpha particle have lower atomic and mass numbers, indicating a more stable state.

Understanding nuclear decay equations, such as the one for polonium-210 alpha decay, is essential in nuclear physics and radiochemistry. It provides insights into the stability and transformations of atomic nuclei, as well as the types of particles emitted during radioactive decay processes.