In the equation below, what particle or type of radiation needs to be included to balance the equation? ²³⁴Th → ? + beta particle A) Ac-234 B) Pa-234 C) Ac-235 D) Pa-235 E) Ac-233

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The equation represents a beta decay process. In beta decay, a neutron is converted into a proton, and a beta particle (electron) is emitted. The atomic number increases by 1, but the mass number remains the same. Since the original element is Thorium (Th) with an atomic number of 90, the product must have an atomic number of 91, which corresponds to Protactinium (Pa), and the mass number remains 234. Therefore, Pa-234 is the correct answer.

In the Equation Below, What Particle or Type of Radiation