Chapter 24.3, Problem 20PP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The balanced nuclear equation for the alpha-particle bombardment of $\text{P}\text{u}$ needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

All of the nuclear reactions or transmutations mentioned so far are examples of radioactive decay, where one element is converted by spontaneous emission of radiation into another. Moreover, transmutations may also be caused or induced by bombarding a stable nucleus with a neutron, or by alpha, beta, or gamma radiation with high energy.

Answer to Problem 20PP

Balanced nuclear equation is

$\text{P}\text{u}\text{+}\text{H}\text{e}\to \text{n}\text{ +}\text{C}\text{m}$

Explanation of Solution

By bombarding $\text{P}\text{u}$ with alpha-particles $\text{242-Cm}$ (curium) and a neutron is formed. Therefore, the balanced nuclear equation is

$\text{P}\text{u}\text{+}\text{H}\text{e}\to \text{n}\text{ +}\text{C}\text{m}$

Conclusion

The sums at each side of the equation of the superscripts are identical. The mass number is thus conserved.