Use the equation to complete the activity.

Question

219/86 Rn→ 215/84 Po+

Alpha The nuclear equation shows the transmutation of a form of radon into polonium and an alpha particle. In one to two sentences, explain whether or not the reaction is balanced. (1 point) An alpha particle has 2 protons and 4 neutrons An alpha particle has 2 protons and 4 neutrons An alpha particle has 2 protons and neutrons An alpha particle has 2 protons and neutrons An alpha particle has 3 protons and 3 neutrons An alpha particle has 3 protons and 3 neutrons An alpha particle has 4 protons and 4 neutrons

Answer 1

To determine if the nuclear equation is balanced, we can compare the total number of protons and nucleons on both sides of the equation.

On the left side, the radon (Rn) has 86 protons and a total mass number of 219. Thus, it contributes 86 protons and 219 total nucleons.

On the right side, polonium (Po) has 84 protons and a total mass number of 215, plus the alpha particle, which has 2 protons and a mass number of 4. Therefore, the right side has a total of 84 + 2 = 86 protons and a total of 215 + 4 = 219 nucleons.

Since the total number of protons and nucleons is the same on both sides, the reaction is balanced.