This lecture discusses alpha decay in radionuclides and provides the basic information to develop alpha decay theory. Systematics and energetics involved in alpha decay are presented and used to describe the nucleus. The correlation between Q value and decay energy is described. Tunneling is introduced as a concept in alpha decay. Hindered alpha decay is discussed. Proton and other charged particle emission are presented.
The homework question at the end of this lecture can be e-mail or returned during the next class meeting on 23 September.
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The homework question at the end of this lecture can be e-mail or returned during the next class meeting on 23 September.
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For the Gamow equation, what are the constants A and B?
ReplyDeleteThey change with isotope. The constants can be determined by plotting logt1/2 against Q alpha as described in the equation. Evaluation of the A and B terms can be used to describe the nuclear potentials.
ReplyDeleteI have looked over the alpha decay lecture and am surprise on how many variable affect the alpha decay calculations.
ReplyDeleteSo a lower hindrance factor essentially means that it is the more likely mode of decay?
ReplyDeletecorrect. A hindrance of 1 means the measured half life is the same as calculated. From this point of view nothing prevents the decay from occurring according to the model.
DeleteI've listened to this lecture.
ReplyDeletethanks for your comment
ReplyDeleteI survived another Powerpoint lecture. This one had my attention the whole time. However, I still don't fully understand the part about tunneling.
ReplyDeleteWe will discuss this in some detail in class on 1 October.
DeleteFor alpha decay the alpha particle needs to leave the nucleus. The Coulomb barrier to the nucleus is high, about 30 MeV. The alpha particle is around 4-8 MeV. To get out of the nucleus the alpha particle must go through the barrier that forms the nuclear well. To get out the alpha particle must tunnel through the barrier. The higher the alpha energy the smaller the barrier. This is the reason higher energy alpha particles have shorter half lives. You can find more information on tunneling at: http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/nuclear/alptun.html