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Identify the atomic symbol X and the atomic number Z of the daughter nucleus in the following nuclear equation - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question c - 2017
Question c
Identify the atomic symbol X and the atomic number Z of the daughter nucleus in the following nuclear equation. $$^{137}_{55}Cs \rightarrow \; ^{137}_{Z}\; X + \; ^... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Identify the atomic symbol X and the atomic number Z of the daughter nucleus in the following nuclear equation - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question c - 2017
Step 1
Identify the atomic symbol X
Answer
In the nuclear equation, the atomic mass number (A) of the daughter nucleus remains the same (137), while the atomic number (Z) changes due to the emission of a beta particle (e). Therefore, the atomic symbol X can be determined as follows:
- Calculate Z for the daughter nucleus: Since a beta particle is emitted, the atomic number of Cs (which is 55) increases by 1. Thus, Z = 55 + 1 = 56.
- Using the periodic table, the element with atomic number 56 is Barium (Ba).
Hence, the atomic symbol X is Ba.
Step 2