Chapter 9, Problem 23P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The complete balanced nuclear reaction for the formation of Americium-240 from plutonium-239 by bombardment with alpha particles should be determined.

Concept introduction:

In a nuclear reaction, we have to balance the following two

1. Number of protons
2. Mass number

The sum of protons on the reactant side should be equal to the sum of protons on the product side.

Similarly, the total mass number on both the side should be equal