Question

In the alpha decay of Francium-221, what daughter element is produced?

Answer 1

Astatine-217 is the daughter element produced by the alpha decay of Francium-221.

Answer 2

Answer: The daughter element produced will be $_{85}^{217}\textrm{At}$

Explanation:

Alpha decay is defined as the process in which a heavier nuclei decays into lighter nuclei while producing alpha particle. The alpha particle released carries a mass of 4 units and a charge of +2 units.

The mass number of the element produced is reduced by 4 units and the atomic number of the element produced is reduced by 2 units.

The chemical equation representing the alpha decay of francium-221 follows:

$_{87}^{221}\textrm{Fr}\rightarrow _{85}^{217}\textrm{At}+_2^4\alpha$

Hence, the daughter element produced will be $_{85}^{217}\textrm{At}$