Chapter 30.1, Problem 12SSC

To determine

To Explain: Nuclei that has largest mass defect.

Answer to Problem 12SSC

The tritium nucleus $H$ has largest mass defect.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Beta decay involves emission of beta particles from the nucleus of the atom and transformation of the nucleus into isobar.

The nucleus of tritium includes one proton and two neutrons.

The process of decayof helium-3 is carried out through a beta decay and follows the equation:

  $H\to H{e}^{1+}+e^{-}+v_e$

The electron's kinetic energy varies, with an average of $5.7\text{keV}$ , while the rest of the energy is carried by the undetectable electron called antineutrino.

Since tritium emits particles with mass and kinetic energy during its decay, the tritium nucleus $H$ has the more negative binding energy and hence it will have largest mass defect.

Conclusion:

The tritium nucleus $H$ has largest mass defect.