Question

Complete the following nuclear equation: \( \^{30}_{15}Si + ? \rightarrow ? + 1e^0 \)

• A. \( + 1e^0 \)
• B. \( 0 + 1e^0 \)
• C. \( 0 - 1e^0 \)
• D. None

Hint:

In beta decay, a neutron is converted into a proton, and an electron (beta particle) is emitted, maintaining the atomic number while the mass number remains the same.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

To complete the given nuclear equation, we follow these steps:

The initial equation is: \(\ ^{30}_{15}Si + ? \rightarrow ? + 1e^0 \)

In nuclear reactions, the sum of the atomic numbers (subscripts) on both sides of the equation must be equal, as must the mass numbers (superscripts).

1. Analyze the given equation:

• Initial isotope: \(\ ^{30}_{15}Si \)
• Resulting particle: \(\ 1e^0 \) (a beta particle or electron)

 

2. Applying conservation of charge and mass number:

• Original mass number: 30 (for silicon)
• Original atomic number: 15 (for silicon)
• Mass number is conserved: Therefore, the sum of mass numbers on the left stays 30.
• The net charge must remain the same before and after the reaction, meaning the input atomic number must be adjusted for the addition of the beta particle.

 

3. Identify the missing components: If a beta decay process is occurring, a neutron is converted to a proton, releasing the beta particle. Therefore, expect the atomic number on the reaction product side to increase by 1 to 16 (phosphorus, P) while the mass number remains at 30.

Thus the balanced equation is: \(\ ^{30}_{15}Si \rightarrow \ ^{30}_{16}P + 1e^0 \)

4. Therefore, the completed equation is consistent with option \(( 0 + 1e^0 )\) as a notation adjustment, aligning with our balanced equation where the resulting component supports charge and mass conservation.

In conclusion, the completion involves recognition of the process results and maintaining the balance using the chosen option.