Understanding Alpha Decay
Alpha decay involves the emission of an alpha particle, which is essentially a helium nucleus (²⁴He). This means the decaying atom loses 2 protons and 2 neutrons.
The Equation
* Parent Nuclide: ²¹⁷At (astatine-217)
* Daughter Nuclide: ²¹³Bi (bismuth-213)
* Alpha Particle: ⁴He
The balanced equation is:
²¹⁷At → ²¹³Bi + ⁴He
Explanation:
* The mass numbers (top numbers) balance: 217 = 213 + 4
* The atomic numbers (bottom numbers) balance: 85 = 83 + 2
