Chapter 18, Problem 54CE

(a)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Product of $\text{rubidium-87}$ decay in beta emission has to be determined.

Concept Introduction:

Beta emission $\left({\text{β}}^{-}\right)$ process represents conversion of neutron into 1 proton and 1 electron. This proton stays within nucleus and electron is emitted out of atom. This electron is called the beta particle $\left({}_{-1}^0\text{e}\right)$.

The generic equation of the beta decay is as follows:

  ${}_Z^A\text{X}{\to }_{Z+1}^A\text{Y}{+}_{-1}^0\text{e}$

Here,

$A$ is the mass or nucleon number.

$Z$ is the atomic number.

$\text{X}$ and Y is the symbol of the element.

(b)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Precursor of $\text{rubidium-87}$ has to be determined.

Concept Introduction:

Refer to part (a)