Chapter 20.1, Problem 1CP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The unknown X atom in the given nuclear reactions is to be identified.

Concept introduction:

In a balanced radioactive decay,

${\displaystyle \sum \text{Reactant mass number = }{\displaystyle \sum \text{Product mass number}}}$

And,

${\displaystyle \sum \text{Reactant atomic number = }{\displaystyle \sum \text{Product atomic number}}}$

In a balanced radioactive decay, the subscript present on individual particles represents the atomic number, while the superscript represents the atomic mass.