Chapter 25, Problem 49PS

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: $Americium-240$ is made by bombarding $\text{plutonium -239}$ with $\alpha$ particles. The balanced equation for this nuclear reaction has to be given.

Concept Introduction:

Nuclear reaction is a physical process in which there is a change in identity of an atomic nucleus. Natural radioactive decays, artificial radioactive decays... are considered as nuclear reactions because these processes make changes in the identity of an atomic nucleus.

Bombardment of particles to the atoms can also make changes in an atomic nucleus. And these processes are completed by the emission of various particles with atom with less energy than the parent atom.

${}_{92}^{235}U+{}_0^{1}n\to {}_{36}^{92}Kr+{}_{56}^{141}Ba+3{}_0^{1}n$

In a balanced nuclear equation mass number and charges are conserved.