Chapter 20, Problem 67AP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The unknown X atom is to be identified in the given nuclear reactions which occur in the explosion of an atomic bomb.

Concept Introduction:

In a balanced radioactive decay,

${\displaystyle \sum \text{Reactant mass number = }{\displaystyle \sum \text{Product mass number}}}$

And

${\displaystyle \sum \text{Reactant atomic number = }{\displaystyle \sum \text{Product atomic number}}}$

In a balanced radioactive decay equation, the subscript present on the individual particles represents the atomic number, while the superscript represents the atomic mass.