Chapter 30, Problem 16Q

To determine

The position of isotopes that undergo electron capture with respect to the stable nuclides.

Answer to Problem 16Q

Solution:

Isotopes that undergo electron capturemust lie below the stable nuclides.

Explanation of Solution

Isotopes that undergo electron capturemust lie below the stable nuclides.In this process, the nucleus has a proton that changes to a neutron. Isotopes that undergo electron capturewilllie to the left and above the original position of an isotope. Since the process would occur only if it made thenucleus more stable. So, it must lie below the stable nuclides.

Conclusion:

Isotopes that undergo electron capturemust lie below the stable nuclides.