Momentum is conserved in the radioactive decay of the nucleus of an americium (Am) atom. The...

 

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Momentum is conserved in the radioactive decay of the nucleus of an americium (Am) atom. The Am nucleus has a mass of 4.034 x 10-25 kg and is sitting at rest. When it decays it emits an alpha particle to the right with a kinetic energy of 8.64 x 10-13 J, and the nucleus of neptunium (Np) with a mass of 3.967 x 10-25 kg to the left.. a. Calculate the velocity of the alpha particle emitted (hint, you will need this velocity for part 2!) (3 marks) b. Use Conservation of Momentum to calculate the velocity of the Np nucleus. (5 marks) Momentum is conserved in the radioactive decay of the nucleus of an americium (Am) atom. The Am nucleus has a mass of 4.034 x 10-25 kg and is sitting at rest. When it decays it emits an alpha particle to the right with a kinetic energy of 8.64 x 10-13 J, and the nucleus of neptunium (Np) with a mass of 3.967 x 10-25 kg to the left.. a. Calculate the velocity of the alpha particle emitted (hint, you will need this velocity for part 2!) (3 marks) b. Use Conservation of Momentum to calculate the velocity of the Np nucleus. (5 marks)