Is the series of nuclear equations to represent the bombardment of Al-27 with a neutron to form a product that subsequently undergoes a beta decay written correctly?

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the initial reaction: When Al-27 is bombarded with a neutron, it forms a new isotope. The nuclear equation for this reaction is: \( \text{^{27}_{13}Al} + \text{^1_0n} \rightarrow \text{^{28}_{13}Al} \).
2. Understand the process of beta decay: In beta decay, a neutron is converted into a proton, and a beta particle (electron) is emitted. This increases the atomic number by 1 while the mass number remains unchanged.
3. Write the beta decay equation: The product \( \text{^{28}_{13}Al} \) undergoes beta decay to form \( \text{^{28}_{14}Si} \). The equation is: \( \text{^{28}_{13}Al} \rightarrow \text{^{28}_{14}Si} + \text{^0_{-1}e} \).
4. Verify the conservation of mass and atomic numbers: Ensure that the sum of mass numbers and atomic numbers on both sides of each equation is equal.
5. Combine the equations: The series of nuclear equations is: \( \text{^{27}_{13}Al} + \text{^1_0n} \rightarrow \text{^{28}_{13}Al} \rightarrow \text{^{28}_{14}Si} + \text{^0_{-1}e} \).

Key Concepts

Nuclear Reactions

Nuclear reactions involve changes in an atom's nucleus and can result in the transformation of one element into another. In this context, the bombardment of Al-27 with a neutron represents a nuclear reaction where the neutron is absorbed, leading to the formation of a new isotope. Understanding the types of nuclear reactions, such as fusion, fission, and neutron capture, is essential for analyzing the given scenario.

Beta Decay

Beta decay is a type of radioactive decay in which a neutron in an unstable nucleus is transformed into a proton, emitting a beta particle (an electron or positron) and an antineutrino. This process increases the atomic number of the element by one, resulting in the formation of a new element. Recognizing the implications of beta decay is crucial for predicting the products of the nuclear reaction involving Al-27.

Nuclear Equation Balancing

Balancing nuclear equations is essential to ensure that both mass and charge are conserved during nuclear reactions. Each side of the equation must have the same total number of nucleons (protons and neutrons) and the same total charge. This principle is vital when writing the equations for the bombardment of Al-27 and its subsequent beta decay, as it allows for the correct identification of reactants and products.