Chapter 25, Problem 82A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Neutrons strike magnesium $\text{-24}$ , a neutron is captured and photons are ejected. The new nuclide formed is to be identified.

Concept introduction:

Radioactive decay is the process of an unstable atomic nucleus releasing energy through radiation.

Answer to Problem 82A

Magnesium $\text{-25}\left(\text{M}\text{g}\right)$

Explanation of Solution

During the gamma radiation of $\text{M}\text{g}$ the neutron is captured, and photons are ejected. We need to look at both atomic and mass numbers and they need to be equal on both sides of the nuclear reaction.

Since neutrons $\text{n}$ are particles with a mass number $\text{1}$ and atomic mass is zero, we need to add 1 to the mass number of magnesium $\text{-24}$ and we got the new isotope magnesium $\text{-25}$ , where atomic mass stays the same. Gamma rays do not change any number, as they have no mass and no charge.

In conclusion, when the nucleus of magnesium $\text{-24}$ gets bombarded with neutrons, nuclei capture these neutrons and eject photons - gamma radiation and the product is Magnesium $\text{-25}\left(\text{M}\text{g}\right)$

The balanced nuclear equation for the bombarding of $\text{M}\text{g}$ with neutron particles with the emission of gamma rays is:

  $\text{M}\text{g+}\text{n}\to \text{M}\text{g+γ}$

Conclusion

The original element is simply made $\text{M}\text{g}$ by neutron capture.