Chapter 15, Problem 4RAT

To determine

The correct option for the statement “You could swallow a capsule of germanium, Ge (atomic number 32), without significant ill effects. If a proton were added to each germanium nucleus, however, you would not want to swallow the capsule because the germanium would”.

Answer to Problem 4RAT

The correct answer for the statement” You could swallow a capsule of germanium, Ge (atomic number 32), without significant ill effects. If a proton were added to each germanium nucleus, however, you would not want to swallow the capsule because the germanium would” is option (a).

Explanation of Solution

Germanium atom is present in fourteen groups of periodic table. Its atomic number is 32 means there are 32 protons present in the nucleus of it. Germanium capsules are taken for significant ill effect and it is not hazardous.

When a proton is added to the germanium nucleus, then its atomic number becomes 33, which is the atomic number of arsenic. Arsenic is a poisonous element and it is not recommended to take in any kind of illness. The ingestion of arsenic can cause a very harmful effect on the human body, like-cancer, lung disease and coma. More amount of arsenic can cause the death of someone.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the correct answer for the statement” You could swallow a capsule of germanium, Ge (atomic number 32), without significant ill effects. If a proton were added to each germanium nucleus, however, you would not want to swallow the capsule because the germanium would" is option (a).