Chapter 24.3, Problem 19PP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The balanced nuclear equation for the induced transmutation of aluminum-27 into sodium -24 by neutron bombardment needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

All of the nuclear reactions or transmutations mentioned so far are examples of radioactive decay, where one element is converted by spontaneous emission of radiation into another. Moreover, transmutations may also be caused or induced by bombarding a stable nucleus with a neutron, or by alpha, beta, or gamma radiation with high energy.

Answer to Problem 19PP

Balanced nuclear equation is

$\text{A}\text{l}+\text{p}\to \text{N}\text{a}+\text{H}\text{e}$

Explanation of Solution

Nuclear formula for Al-27: $\text{A}\text{l}$

Nuclear formula for Na-24: $\text{N}\text{a}$

Nuclear formula for proton: p

Nuclear formula for alpha particle: $\text{H}\text{e}$

Therefore, the balanced nuclear equation is

$\text{A}\text{l}+\text{p}\to \text{N}\text{a}+\text{H}\text{e}$

Conclusion

The sums at each side of the equation of the superscripts are identical. The mass number is thus conserved.