Theory of Alpha Decay
Introduction
Alpha decay is a type of radioactive decay where a heavy nucleus emits an alpha particle (42He). Classical
physics fails to explain how an alpha particle with 4-9 MeV of energy can escape the nucleus when the
Coulomb barrier is ~25 MeV. This paradox is resolved using quantum tunneling.
Classical Viewpoint
The potential energy of an alpha particle at a distance r from a daughter nucleus of charge Ze is:
V(r) = (2Ze²) / (4r)
Classically:
- If Talpha < Vmax, escape is impossible (probability = 0%)
- If Talpha > Vmax, escape is certain (probability = 100%)
However, in reality, alpha particles with Talpha < Vmax are observed to escape indicating quantum
tunneling.
Quantum Mechanical Theory (Gamow's Theory)
In 1928, Gamow, Gurney, and Condon applied quantum mechanics to explain alpha decay via tunneling.
Assumptions:
1. Alpha particle exists pre-formed inside the nucleus.
2. It moves back and forth, hitting the potential barrier.
3. Each collision gives a small probability of tunneling through the barrier.
Decay constant:
=vxP
Where:
- v: frequency of collisions (~10²¹ s¹)
- P: tunneling probability
If V is alpha particle velocity, R is nuclear radius:
v = V / (2R) = VP / (2R)
Schrödinger Equation
The time-independent Schrödinger equation is:
d²psi/dr² + (2malpha/²)(Talpha - V(r))psi = 0
In the classically forbidden region R < r < R, where V(r) > Talpha:
V(r) = 2Ze² / (4r), with Talpha = V(r=R)
V/Talpha = R/r
Thus, the equation becomes:
d²psi/dr² + (2malphaTalpha/²)(R/r - 1)psi = 0
Tunneling Probability (WKB Approximation)
The tunneling probability P is:
P exp[-2 (from R to R) [2malpha/² (V(r) - Talpha)] dr]
Evaluating the integral gives:
log P = -aZ / Talpha + b
This leads to the Geiger-Nuttall Law:
log = A - BZ / Talpha
Where A and B are constants. This shows that log is linearly related to Z / Talpha, consistent with
experimental data.
Conclusion
The theory of alpha decay, based on quantum tunneling, explains how particles escape despite insufficient
classical energy. It derives an expression matching the empirical Geiger-Nuttall law, and is supported by
experimental data.