Chapter 19.1, Problem 1RQ

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The quantities that must be conserved during a nuclear equation needs to be given. Also how balancing a nuclear reaction is different from balancing chemical equation needs to be explained.

Concept introduction: Balancing an equation involves equating both the sides of the equation depending upon what quantity is conserved during a particular reaction. Also nucleons are the particles present in the nucleus of an atom.

Answer to Problem 1RQ

When balancing a nuclear equation, two quantities that must be conserved are number of nucleons and charge.

Explanation of Solution

During a chemical reaction, mass is always conserved. So the atoms of all elements are equated on both the sides of the equation considering mass can neither be created nor be destroyed. On the other hand, during nuclear reactions number of particles (nucleons) and charge is conserved. Mass is not conserved during nuclear reactions as some of it gets converted into energy.

Conclusion

During a chemical reaction, mass is conserved whereas during nuclear reactions number of particles (nucleons) and charge is conserved.