Chapter 15, Problem 5PP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The method of radioactive decay of the unstable nuclide $\text{N}\text{e}$ is to be predicted.

Concept Introduction:

The ratio of neutrons to protons, $N/Z$ , is helpful in predicting nuclear stability. Stable nuclides have an $N/Z$ ratio of $1$ . The radioactivity results from unstable N/Z ratios.

The ratios change through decay processes like beta decay, electron capture, or positron emission to achieve greater stability. If $N/Z$ ratio is too high, nuclide undergoes beta decay to lower the ratio. If $N/Z$ ratio is too low, nuclide undergoes positron emission or electron capture which raises the ratio.