# Problem: The nuclear reaction that powers a radioisotope thermoelectric generator is  94 238Pu  →   92 234U + 2 4He. The atomic masses of plutonium-238 and uranium-234 are 238.049554 amu and 234.040946 amu, respectively. The mass of an alpha particle is 4.001506 amu. How much energy in kJis released when 1.00 g of plutonium-238 decays to uranium-234?

🤓 Based on our data, we think this question is relevant for Professor Davis' class at UCF.

###### Problem Details

The nuclear reaction that powers a radioisotope thermoelectric generator is  94 238Pu  →   92 234U + 2 4He. The atomic masses of plutonium-238 and uranium-234 are 238.049554 amu and 234.040946 amu, respectively. The mass of an alpha particle is 4.001506 amu. How much energy in kJis released when 1.00 g of plutonium-238 decays to uranium-234?

Frequently Asked Questions

What scientific concept do you need to know in order to solve this problem?

Our tutors have indicated that to solve this problem you will need to apply the Mass Defect concept. If you need more Mass Defect practice, you can also practice Mass Defect practice problems.

What professor is this problem relevant for?

Based on our data, we think this problem is relevant for Professor Davis' class at UCF.