Write an equation for the probable mode of decay for each of the following unstable isotopes, and write an equation for that nuclear reaction.

1. (a) silicon-32, 14 32 Si
2. (b) titanium-45, 22 45 Ti
3. (c) plutonium-239, 94 239 Pu
4. (d) potassium-42,   19 42 K

Interpretation:

An equation for the probable mode of decay for each of the following unstable isotopes has to be written.

Concept introduction:

The unstable isotopes most commonly emit alpha particles (He2+), in rare cases it emits alpha (or) beta particles. The electrons, Neutrons, protons, and positrons can also be emitted. Electrons are captured to attain a more stable atomic configuration through a process called radioactive decay.

Silicon-32 has 18 neutrons and 14 protons, so the neutron to proton (n/p) ratio is greater than 4 too high for Si-32 to be stable. Nuclei with too few neutrons are expected to decay by either beta emission (or) electron capture. In this instance, the process is −10β emission, and the equation is Silicon-32, 1432Si→  −10β 

Interpretation:

An equation for the probable mode of decay for each of the following unstable isotopes has to be written.

Concept introduction:

The unstable isotopes most commonly emit alpha particles (He2+), in rare cases it emits alpha (or) beta particles. The electrons, Neutrons, protons, and positrons can also be emitted. Electrons are captured to attain a more stable atomic configuration through a process called radioactive decay.

Interpretation:

An equation for the probable mode of decay for each of the following unstable isotopes has to be written.

Concept introduction:

The unstable isotopes most commonly emit alpha particles (He2+), in rare cases it emits alpha (or) beta particles. The electrons, Neutrons, protons, and positrons can also be emitted. Electrons are captured to attain a more stable atomic configuration through a process called radioactive decay.

Interpretation:

An equation for the probable mode of decay for each of the following unstable isotopes has to be written.

Concept introduction:

The unstable isotopes most commonly emit alpha particles (He2+), in rare cases it emits alpha (or) beta particles. The electrons, Neutrons, protons, and positrons can also be emitted. Electrons are captured to attain a more stable atomic configuration through a process called radioactive decay.