Chapter 45, Problem 1OQ

To determine

The number of neutrons after reaction.

Answer to Problem 1OQ

Option (c) 3.

Explanation of Solution

In this reaction, before and after the reaction the mass number must be conserved.

The total mass number before the reaction is the sum of the mass number of $\text{U}$ plus the mass number of neutron, which is equal to $235+1=236$.

The total mass number after the reaction is the sum of the mass numbers of $\text{I}$ and $\text{Y}$, and is equal to $137+96=233$. This implies the mass number is not conserved and is lag by 3. Thus, there must be three neutrons should emit to maintain the conservation.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the number of neutron produced is 3.