Question

question 3 (1 point)
the isotope americium-241 (used in smoke detectors) undergoes alpha decay. which of the following isotopes is a product of this decay?
berkelium-245
neptunium-245
neptunium-237
berkelium-247
question 4 (1 point)
a radioactive isotope of carbon, carbon-14, is used in the dating of ancient organic remains. carbon-14 emits beta radiation as it undergoes nuclear decay. what isotope is a product of this nuclear decay?
boron-11
carbon-12
nitrogen-14
beryllium-14

Explanation:

Step1: Define alpha decay changes

Alpha decay: $^A_Z X
ightarrow ^{A-4}_{Z-2} Y + ^4_2\alpha$

Step2: Calculate americium-241 product

Americium (Am) has $Z=95$, $A=241$.
New $Z=95-2=93$ (neptunium, Np), new $A=241-4=237$.
Result: neptunium-237

Step3: Define beta decay changes

Beta decay: $^A_Z X
ightarrow ^A_{Z+1} Y + ^0_{-1}\beta$

Step4: Calculate carbon-14 product

Carbon (C) has $Z=6$, $A=14$.
New $Z=6+1=7$ (nitrogen, N), new $A=14$.
Result: nitrogen-14

Answer:

1. neptunium-237
2. nitrogen-14