Complete and balance the following nuclear equations by supplying the missing particle: (d) 5826Fe + 2 10n¡6027Co + ?

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Identify the type of nuclear reaction. In this case, it appears to be a neutron capture reaction where a neutron is absorbed by a nucleus, resulting in a new element and possibly other particles.

Write down the given nuclear equation: \( ^{58}_{26}\text{Fe} + 2 \times ^{1}_{0}\text{n} \rightarrow ^{60}_{27}\text{Co} + ? \).

Apply the law of conservation of mass number and atomic number. The sum of mass numbers (top numbers) and atomic numbers (bottom numbers) on both sides of the equation must be equal.

Calculate the total mass number on the left side: \( 58 + 2 \times 1 = 60 \). The mass number on the right side is 60, so it is balanced.

Calculate the total atomic number on the left side: \( 26 + 2 \times 0 = 26 \). The atomic number on the right side is 27, so the missing particle must have an atomic number of \(-1\), which corresponds to a \( \beta^- \) particle (electron).

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Nuclear Reactions

Nuclear reactions involve changes in an atom's nucleus and can result in the transformation of one element into another. They are characterized by the conservation of mass and charge, meaning that the total number of nucleons (protons and neutrons) and the total charge must remain constant before and after the reaction.

Balancing Nuclear Equations

Balancing nuclear equations requires ensuring that both the mass number (total number of protons and neutrons) and the atomic number (number of protons) are equal on both sides of the equation. This process often involves identifying missing particles, such as neutrons, protons, or alpha/beta particles, to achieve balance.

Types of Particles in Nuclear Reactions

In nuclear reactions, various particles can be involved, including neutrons, protons, alpha particles (helium nuclei), and beta particles (electrons or positrons). Understanding the role of these particles is crucial for predicting the outcome of the reaction and for identifying what is missing in a given equation.