Write a nuclear equation to represent radium-226 decaying to radon-222 plus an alpha particle.

22688 Ra→ l 22286 Rn + l 42 He

Explanation:

An α-particle is a helium nucleus. It contains 2 protons and 2 neutrons, for a mass number of 4.

During α-decay, an atomic nucleus emits an alpha particle. It transforms (or decays) into an atom with an atomic number 2 less and a mass number 4 less.

Thus, radium-226 decays through α-particle emission to form radon-222 according to the equation:

22688 Ra→ l 22286 Rn + l 42 He

Note that the sum of the subscripts (atomic numbers or charges) is the same on each side of the equation.

Also, the sum of the superscripts (masses) is the same on each side of the equation.

Now try figuring out Am-241