Hey there. It's been a while since I've posted, but anyways herro again. There are two parts to my question. First, let's start with the question.

Problem:The parent nuclide of the thorium decay series is 232 (OVER) 90 Th. The first four decays are: alpha particle emission, beta particle emission, beta particle emission, alphja particle emission. Write the nuclear equations for this series of emissions.

Question 1: What's the difference between Alpha and beta particle emissions? I think it has to do with if it gives off a proton or a neutron, but I could be wrong. Either way, can you give me an example of this please?

Question 2: How would I go about solving this problem? Whenever you can get the answer to me would be nice. I'm going to try to give my best educated guess so I'll have the homework done, but I'd like to know the correct way to do it for after the fact.

I've looked over my notes (the teacher gives us overheads to copy down and specifically says the book is a waste of time for the most part) and can't find anything about how to write the nuclear equation.

What I think I do know: To solve for nuclear disintegration you must do: reactants top & bottom = products top & bottom.

Help is appreciated! :)