For both unstable nuclide predict the decay pathway and write the nuclear equation  1) C-11----> 2) Ac-224--->

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For both unstable nuclide predict the decay pathway and write the nuclear equation 

1) C-11---->

2) Ac-224--->

Expert Solution
Step 1

The N/Z ratio is a measure of the stability of a nucleus.  This ratio predicts the likely mode of decay of unstable nuclei.  N is the number of neutrons and Z is the number of protons or the atomic number of the element.  Nucleus with a lower value of (N/Z) than the value for stable nucleus predicts that protons are less as compared to neutrons and the protons must be converted to neutrons by positron emission in which protons inside the nucleus are converted to neutrons. A higher value of (N/Z) than the value for a stable nucleus, neutrons must be converted to protons by beta decay.  All nuclei with atomic number greater than 83 have only unstable nuclei and they undergo alpha emission.

For elements with atomic number 1 to 20, stable nuclei have (N/Z) ratio is 1.

For elements with atomic number 20 to 40, stable nuclei have (N/Z) ratio is 1.25

For atomic number 40 to 80 elements, (N/Z) ratio is 1.5

Step 2

1)

For C-11

Atomic number = Number of protons = Z = 6

Number of neutrons = N = (11 - 6) = 5

Thus, the ratio N/Z = (5/6) = 0.83

The decay pathway is positron emission.

The nuclear reaction equation is,

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