Write balanced nuclear equations for the following processes. (b) Electron capture of 138Sm

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Identify the process: Electron capture involves an inner orbital electron being captured by the nucleus, which combines with a proton to form a neutron.

Write the initial isotope: The isotope given is Samarium-138, which is represented as \( ^{138}_{62}\text{Sm} \).

Determine the change in the nucleus: During electron capture, a proton is converted into a neutron, so the atomic number decreases by 1, but the mass number remains the same.

Write the balanced nuclear equation: The equation for electron capture of \( ^{138}_{62}\text{Sm} \) is \( ^{138}_{62}\text{Sm} + e^- \rightarrow ^{138}_{61}\text{Pm} \).

Verify the balance: Ensure that the sum of atomic numbers and mass numbers are equal on both sides of the equation.

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Nuclear Reactions

Nuclear reactions involve changes in an atom's nucleus and can result in the transformation of one element into another. These reactions include processes such as alpha decay, beta decay, and electron capture. Understanding the type of nuclear reaction is essential for writing balanced nuclear equations, as it dictates the particles involved and the resulting isotopes.

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Electron capture is a type of radioactive decay in which an electron from the innermost energy level is captured by the nucleus, combining with a proton to form a neutron. This process decreases the atomic number of the element by one while keeping the mass number the same. Recognizing this mechanism is crucial for accurately representing the changes in the nuclear equation.

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Balancing nuclear equations requires ensuring that the total number of protons and neutrons is the same on both sides of the equation. This involves accounting for the particles emitted or absorbed during the reaction, such as electrons, positrons, or neutrinos. Mastery of this concept is vital for correctly formulating the nuclear equation for processes like electron capture.

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