An atomic nucleus at rest decays radioactively into a smaller nucleus and an alpha particle (i.e. a helium nucleus). The alpha particle is leaving the original nucleus at a speed of 2.5 × 105m/s. Will the smaller nucleus remain at rest or will it move as well? Explain.

Principles of Physics: A Calculus-Based Text
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ISBN:9781133104261
Author:Raymond A. Serway, John W. Jewett
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Chapter8: Momentum And Collisions
Section: Chapter Questions
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An atomic nucleus at rest decays radioactively into a smaller nucleus and an alpha particle (i.e. a helium nucleus). The alpha particle is leaving the original nucleus at a speed of 2.5 × 105m/s. Will the smaller nucleus remain at rest or will it move as well? Explain. 

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