Chapter 22, Problem 22.14SP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Nucleus has less mass than the sum of its constituent protons and neutrons; the reason has to be determined.

Concept Introduction:

Radioactive Nuclei:  The radioactive nuclei higher neutron/proton ratios tend to emit by $\text{β}$ particles, while nuclei with lower neutron/proton ratios tend to undergo nuclear decay by positron emission, electron capture, or $\text{α}$ emission.

Neutron poor: If the mass number of the nuclide is less than the atomic number of any element, the condition is said to be neutron poor.