Chapter 24, Problem 70A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The balanced nuclear equations for the radioactive decay mentioned in the question are to be written.

Concept Introduction: In alpha decay, the atomic and mass numbers decrease by 2 and 4 respectively.

Answer to Problem 70A

The equation for given decay is:

  ${}_3^6\text{Li}+n{\to }_3^7{\text{Li}}^{\ast }{\stackrel{\alpha }{\to }}_1^3\text{H}{+}_2^4\text{He}$

Explanation of Solution

On the addition of a neutron, lithium becomes highly excited and undergoes alpha radioactive decay to give tritium and helium(alpha) as products.