Question

Which of the following choices represents \(^{239}_{94}Pu\) producing a positron?

• A. \(^{239}_{94}Pu \rightarrow ^{235}_{94}Pu + ^{4}_2He\)
• B. \(^{239}_{94}Pu \rightarrow e^- + ^{239}_{93}Np\)
• C. \(^{239}_{94}Pu \rightarrow \sigma^-1 + ^{239}_{94}Np\)
• D. \(^{239}_{94}Pu \rightarrow ^{239}_{93}Np + e^+\)

Hint:

Positron emission decreases the atomic number by 1 while keeping the mass number the same.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Positron emission occurs when a proton in the nucleus decays to form a neutron, releasing a positron in the process. Therefore, the correct nuclear reaction is \(^{239}_{94}Pu \rightarrow ^{239}_{93}Np + e^+\). Thus, the correct answer is (d).