Chapter 20, Problem 20.1QP

Interpretation Introduction

Iinterpretation:

Two types of nuclear reaction with example have to be written.

Concept introduction:

In chemical reactions the outer shell electrons of the atom only concerned, the nuclei of the atom does not affected.  In nuclear reaction, the changes occur in nucleus which is independent of the atom’s chemical environment.

Explanation of Solution

Two types of nuclear reactions are,

• Radioactive decay
• Nuclear bombardment reactions

Radioactive decay

In this process a nucleus instinctively disintegrates produce radiation.  This radiation consists of one or more particles (given below) depends on the nucleus.

These particles are,

• Electrons
• Nuclear particles (like neutrons)
• Smaller nuclei (typically helium-4)
• Electromagnetic radiation

Example for Radioactive decay

${}_{\text{92}}^{\text{238}}\text{U}\stackrel{}{\to }{}_{\text{ 90}}^{\text{234}}{\text{Th + }}_{\text{2}}^{\text{4}}\text{He}$

Nuclear bombardment reaction

In this reaction a nucleus is bombarded by another nuclear particle or another nucleus.  If there is enough energy in this bombardment the nuclear particle of the reactants rearranges to give nuclei or nucleus as a product.

Example for Nuclear bombardment reaction

${}_{\text{13}}^{\text{27}}{\text{Al + }}_{\text{2}}^{\text{4}}\text{He}\stackrel{}{\to }{}_{\text{ 15}}^{\text{30}}{\text{P + }}_{\text{2}}^{\text{4}}\text{He}$

Conclusion

Types of nuclear reaction with example were explained.