Chapter 25.1, Problem 5LC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: To describe the two items that must be balanced during a nuclear reaction.

Concept Introduction: The process which involves the formation of more than one nuclide via a collision between two nuclei or between one nucleus and a subatomic particle, is known as a nuclear reaction.

Answer to Problem 5LC

During a nuclear reaction, the two items i.e., mass and charge must be balanced.

Explanation of Solution

During a nuclear reaction, the two items i.e., mass and charge must be balanced.

For example, consider a nuclear reaction between radioisotope Uranium-238, which emits an alpha particle and changed to Thorium-234 radioisotope.

The chemical equation depicting alpha radiation is as follows:

  $\text{U}\stackrel{\text{radioactive decay}}{\to }\text{T}\text{h}+\text{H}\text{e}$

In this reaction, the total masses and charges of the reactants as well as products are identical to each other.

Conclusion

Thus, during a nuclear reaction, the two items i.e., mass and charge must be balanced.