Chapter 20, Problem 62E

Interpretation Introduction

Solution:

Interpretation:

The nuclear series of equations in which $\text{Al-27}$ reacts with a neutron and the product obtained undergoes an alpha decay followed by a beta decay is to be written.

Concept introduction:

➢ The equations representing the changes that take place during radioactivity and other nuclear processes are called nuclear equations.

➢ The nuclear equation should be balanced just like the chemical equations.

➢ In a balanced nuclear equation, the sum of the atomic numbers and mass numbers on both sides of a nuclear equation should be equal.

➢ The atom undergoing nuclear disintegration is called parent nuclide and the products obtained are called daughter nuclide.

➢ The bombardment of neutron on nucleus increases the mass number by unit one.

➢ The identity and symbol of the daughter nuclide formed by an alpha decay can be deduced from the atomic and mass numbers of their parent nuclide.

➢ In an alpha decay, nucleus emits a particle with mass number 4 and atomic number 2 which is equivalent to helium nucleus. Thus, in an alpha decay, the mass number decreases by 4 and the atomic number decreases by 2.In a beta decay, nucleus emits an electron. During a beta decay, the mass number remains the same as electron has no protons or neutrons but atomic number increases by 1 as electron carries one unit of negative charge.

➢ The symbols of neutron, alpha particle, and beta particle are ${}_{\text{0}}^{\text{1}}{\text{n, }}_{\text{2}}^{\text{4}}\text{He}$, and ${}_{\text{-1}}^{\text{0}}\text{e}$, respectively.