In an α-decay, Kα = 48 MeV and Q = 50 MeV. Assuming the daughter is in its ground state, find the mother mass number.
Physics · Nuclear physics
JEE Mains Practice

Question

In an α-decay, Kα = 48 MeV and Q = 50 MeV. Assuming the daughter is in its ground state, find the mother mass number.

G1 Physics · Accepted Answer

Daughter recoil energy is Q−Kα=2 MeV. Equal momenta give Kα/Kd=Md/Mα≈(A−4)/4. Thus 48/2=(A−4)/4, giving A=100.