Chapter U1.16, Problem 5E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

A nuclear reaction must be written for the formation of iron-54 through fusion.

Concept introduction:

Nuclear fusion is a class of nuclear reactions in which two or more than two nuclides combine to form a heavier nuclide.

Answer to Problem 5E

${}_{\text{26}}^{\text{56}}{\text{Fe +}}_{\text{0}}^{\text{1}}\text{n}{\to }_{\text{26}}^{\text{54}}{\text{Fe + 3}}_{\text{0}}^{\text{1}}\text{n}$

Explanation of Solution

When iron-56 is bombarded with a neutron, then it is converted to iron-54 and three neutrons are ejected. In this nuclear reaction, mass is conserved as expected for any nuclear reaction. Thus the total mass number of reactants is equal to the total mass number of products. Similarly, the total atomic number of reactants is equal to the total atomic number of products.

Conclusion

Nuclear reaction for the formation of iron-54 is represented as follows:

${}_{\text{26}}^{\text{56}}{\text{Fe +}}_{\text{0}}^{\text{1}}\text{n}{\to }_{\text{26}}^{\text{54}}{\text{Fe + 3}}_{\text{0}}^{\text{1}}\text{n}$