Chapter 17, Problem 55E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

With the help of symbol representation, identify whether the symbol is alpha particle, beta particle, gamma ray, positron, a neutron, or a proton.

Concept introduction:

To understand the radioactivity of heavy elements, symbol for radioactive elements isused.

The main subatomic particles are proton $\left({}_1^1\text{p}\right)$, neutron ${}_0^1\text{n}$, and electron $\left({}_{-1}^0\text{e}\right)$.

When a nucleus emits a particle containing two proton and two neutron, such emission is known as alpha $\left(\alpha \right)$ decay and is represented by ${}_4^2\text{He}$.

When a nucleus emits an electron during a nuclear reaction, such emission is known as beta $\left(\beta \right)$ decay and is represented by ${}_{-1}^0\text{e}$.

When a higher energy photon is emitted during the nuclear reaction, such emission is known as gamma ray decay.