Chapter 19, Problem 5A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: General symbol of representation for a nuclide with an example must be given.

Concept introduction: Nuclear reactions are those where an unstable nuclide disintegrates in order to form a stable nuclide with emission of various radiations feasibly. It is called radioactivity of nucleus. The particles or rays emitted during the process are alpha, beta and gamma rays which cause a change in the identity of nucleus.

Beta particle is one that has unit negative charge and alpha particle is one that has 2 unit positive charges and is equivalent to helium atom ${}_2^4\text{He}$ .

Answer to Problem 5A

General representation of nucleus (X) is ${}_Z^A\text{X}$ . One such example of nucleus is ${}_{53}^{131}\text{I}$ .

Explanation of Solution

Atomic number indicated by Z is a count of protons or electron in a nucleus and mass number (A) is sum of proton and neutron contained in a nucleus.

General representation of nucleus (X) is ${}_Z^A\text{X}$ . One such example of nucleus is ${}_{53}^{131}\text{I}$ .

Conclusion

General representation of nucleus (X) is ${}_Z^A\text{X}$ . One such example of nucleus is ${}_{53}^{131}\text{I}$ .