Question

Q.3 (a) Show that in alpha decay from a stationary parent nuclide that the conservation of energy and momentum lead to a relation between the decay energy for the nuclear reaction and the kinetic energy gained by the alpha particle, KE, given by

Q = KE(1+ 1m(daughter )   × m(⁴₂He))

What is the velocity of the alpha particle emitted in the decay of ²³⁸U?.

Given

Q = 4.28 MeV, m_α = 4.0015u, m_daughter = m_thorium = 233.99409u 10

(b) Draw a schematic diagram of nuclear reactor and discuss its different components.

Answer 1

The Alpha decay is a type of radio active decay where a nucleus releases an alpha particle along with some amount of energy which is bound by laws of coneservation on energy and momentum. Attached are the images of the solution to the question and schematic diagram of a nuclear reactor.

Schematic diagram of a Nuclear Reactor:

Control Rods : They control the rate at with the nuclear reaction(Fusion/Fission) takes place. When fully inserted, no reaction takes place. When completely removed, the reaction is at it peaks.

Steam Generator: It converts water into steam to drive the turbine.

Turbine: It rotates with the inflow of steam which is connected to a generator.

Generator: It generates electricity.

Cooling Tower: It maintains the temperature of the reactor.