Is the following decay possible?238Pu (Z = 94) ⟶ 236U (Z = 92) + α It's impossible to tell Yes No

Yes, the decay is possible. This is an example of alpha decay, where an alpha particle (which is essentially a helium nucleus with 2 protons and 2 neutrons) is emitted.

Here's the step-by-step explanation:

1. The original atom is Plutonium-238 (238Pu), which has 94 protons.

2. In alpha decay, an atom emits an alpha particle, which has 2 protons and 2 neutrons.

3. After the decay, the atom becomes Uranium-236 (236U), which has 92 protons.

4. The atomic number (Z) decreases by 2 (from 94 to 92) and the atomic mass number decreases by 4 (from 238 to 236), which is consistent with the loss of an alpha particle.

So, the decay 238Pu (Z = 94) ⟶ 236U (Z = 92) + α is indeed possible.