Question:

A nucleus of uranium decays at rest into nuclei of thorium and helium. Then:

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For equal momentum, lighter particle has more kinetic energy.
Updated On: Mar 24, 2026
  • the helium nucleus has less momentum than the thorium nucleus
  • the helium nucleus has more momentum than the thorium nucleus
  • the helium nucleus has less kinetic energy than the thorium nucleus
  • the helium nucleus has more kinetic energy than the thorium nucleus
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation


Step 1:
By conservation of momentum, both nuclei have equal momentum.
Step 2:
Kinetic energy: \[ K=\frac{p^2}{2m} \]
Step 3:
Smaller mass (helium) has larger kinetic energy.
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