A curium-242 (Z = 96) can be produced by positive-ion bombardment when an alpha particle collides with which of the following nuclei? Note: A neutron is also a product of this bombardment, in addition to the curium-242.

A. Pu - 239

B. U - 239

C. Am-241

D. Cf-249

E. Pu-241

A. Pu - 239

Explanation:

An isotope is an element with the same atomic number but different mass number. most isotope are unstable, having short half life.

Curium-242 is an isotope produced when Plutonium 239 is bombarded by an alpha particle. This reaction between Plutonium 239 and alpha particle gives curium-242, neutron and a high amount of energy as the products.

Curium oxidizes easily, and it is a dangerous metal which can cause cancer initiation when absorbed by biological materials e. g bones or tissue.