Polonium-210 (84210Po{}^{210}_{84}\text{Po}84210Po) is an alpha-emitting radioactive isotope used in industrial static eliminators to neutralize static electricity on paper or plastic sheets.
Describe the structure of a polonium-210 nucleus.
Polonium-210 decays by emitting an alpha particle to form lead (Pb\text{Pb}Pb). Complete the balanced nuclear equation for this decay by finding the missing numbers and symbol:
84210Po→……Pb+42……{}^{210}_{84}\text{Po} \rightarrow \frac{\quad\dots\quad}{\quad\dots\quad}\text{Pb} + \frac{4}{2}\dots\dots84210Po→……Pb+24……
In a static eliminator, the radiation must ionize the air nearby but not pose a high radiation risk to workers standing a short distance away. Explain why beta and gamma radiation are not suitable for this device.
The half-life of polonium-210 is 138 days138\text{ days}138 days.
Explain what is meant by half-life.
Explain why a static eliminator containing polonium-210 must be replaced every few years.
The table below shows data for two alpha-emitting radioactive sources:
| Source | Half-life | Radiation emitted |
|---|---|---|
| Polonium-210 | 138 days138\text{ days}138 days | Alpha |
| Radium-226 | 1600 years1600\text{ years}1600 years | Alpha |
Both sources start with the same number of radioactive nuclei. Which source presents a greater initial radiation hazard? Explain your answer.
A safety officer says: 'There is virtually no risk to the health of factory workers from the active polonium-210 source during normal daily operations.'
Do you agree with this statement? Give two reasons for your answer.