Which of the following series of radioactive decays would convert Pa-234 to Ra-226?
A)Beta, Alpha, Beta
B)Alpha, Alpha
C)Beta, Alpha, Alpha, Beta
D)Beta, Alpha, Alpha
E)Alpha, Beta, Gamma

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Pa-234 decays by beta decay to U-234, which then decays by alpha decay to Th-230, which then undergoes alpha decay to Ra-226. Thus, the series of radioactive decays that would convert Pa-234 to Ra-226 is beta decay (Pa-234 to U-234), alpha decay (U-234 to Th-230), and alpha decay (Th-230 to Ra-226). This is represented by choice D, "Beta, Alpha, Alpha".

Which of the Following Series of Radioactive Decays Would Convert