Question

Predict the decay pathways of the following radioactive isotopes using the provided belt of stability figure. For each isotope, select all that apply 000000 S Number of neutrons 10 Number of protons

Answer 1

Part A

In ²⁴ Ne₁₀ , Number of neutrons (n) = (24 -10) = 14, number of protons (p) = 10.

Then , n/p = (14/10) = 1.4.

From the graph for stable nuclei having low atomic number (1 to 20) has n/p ratio $\approx$ 1.

The n/p ratio in ²⁴Ne is higher than that of stable nuclei.

So, in beta dacay n/p ratio can be decreased.

²⁴Ne₁₀ - ⁰e_-1$\rightarrow$²⁴Na₁₁

In ²⁴Na₁₁, number of neutrons = (24-11)= 13

Number of protons = 11.

n/p ratio = (13/11) = 1.18.

Part B

⁸²Rb₃₇ , number of neutrons = (82 - 37) = 45

Number of protons = 37

n/p ratio = (45/37)= 1.21.

Atoms with higher atomic number (after atomic number 20) n/p ratio gradually increases.

Heavier elements increases n/p ratio by electron capture.

By electron capture n/p ratio increases.

⁸²Rb₃₇ + ^oe_-1$\to$⁸²Kr₃₆