Multiple Choice
In beta decay, the effective change in the nucleus is
21. Nuclear Chemistry
Intro to Radioactivity
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What type of radioactive decay would result from an isotope with 40 protons and 80 neutrons?
A
Alpha decay
B
beta decay
C
positron emission
D
gamma ray emission
E
none of the above, the isotope is stable
Verified step by step guidance1
First, identify the element based on the number of protons. An element with 40 protons is zirconium (Zr).
Next, determine the mass number of the isotope. The mass number is the sum of protons and neutrons, which is 40 + 80 = 120.
Consider the neutron-to-proton ratio to assess stability. A high neutron-to-proton ratio often indicates potential instability, leading to beta decay.
Beta decay involves the conversion of a neutron into a proton, emitting an electron (beta particle) and an antineutrino. This process decreases the neutron count and increases the proton count, moving the isotope towards a more stable configuration.
Evaluate other decay types: Alpha decay reduces both protons and neutrons, positron emission decreases protons, and gamma ray emission involves energy release without changing protons or neutrons. Given the neutron-to-proton ratio, beta decay is the most likely process for this isotope.
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