For the alpha decay ${}^{241}\text{Am}{\to }^{237}\text{Np}+\alpha$, the masses are $m{(}^{241}\text{Am})=241.05682$ u, $m{(}^{237}\text{Np})=237.04817$ u, $m(\alpha )=4.002603$ u. Calculate the Q‑value of the reaction.

Step-by-step solution

1. Write $Q=[M_{\text{parent}}-(M_{\text{daughter}}+M_{\alpha })]\times 931.5$ MeV.
2. Sum daughter and alpha masses: $237.04817+4.002603=241.050773$ u.
3. Find mass difference: $241.05682-241.050773=0.006047$ u.
4. Convert to energy: $Q=0.006047\times 931.5=5.64$ MeV.

Concept tested: Q‑value of nuclear decay

Published 15 September 2026 · Last updated 16 September 2026 · How this solution was prepared and checked