Chapter 20, Problem 108RQ

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The balanced nuclear equations for the given changes are to be written.

Concept Introduction:

A nuclear reaction may take place either by breaking down of a heavy atomic nucleus into smaller atomic nuclei or lighter nuclei combining to form a bigger atomic nucleus, the former is called a nuclear fission reaction and the latter is called nuclear fusion reaction.

The nuclear emission may occur in the form of alpha emission, beta emission or positron emission. Alpha emitters are the radionuclides that have an atomic number above $83$, beta emitters lie above and to the left of the band of stability whereas positron emitters lie below and to the right of the band.