Chapter 40, Problem 52A

To determine

The new element produced by the beta decay when a pair of carbon nuclei fuse.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

The atomic number of product nuclei is the same as the sum ofthe atomic number of reactant nuclei. The product nucleus is heavier than each reactant nuclei.

The atomic number of carbon nuclei is 6. The atomic number of the new element by the fusion of a pair of carbon becomes 12.

The atomic number of magnesium is 12. So, the new element formed by the fusion of a pair of carbon nuclei is magnesium.

The atomic number of the new element increases by the decay of one beta particle, and the mass number remains unaffected. The atomic number of the new element formed by the decay of one beta particle from magnesium is 13. So, the new element is aluminum.

Conclusion:

Thus, the new element produced by the beta decay when a pair of carbon nuclei fuse is aluminum.