What particle decay is this?
What is the particle decay process in the following scenario: 210 83 Bi → 210 84 Po?
In this scenario, the particle decay process is known as beta emission. In beta emission, a neutron is converted into a proton, emitting an electron and a neutrino in the process. This type of decay results in the atomic number of the daughter nucleus being greater than that of the parent nucleus by one unit, while the mass number remains the same.
Explanation of Beta Emission:
Beta emission is a type of radioactive decay in which a neutron inside the nucleus of an atom is transformed into a proton, causing the atomic number of the element to increase by one. This process results in the emission of an electron, also known as a beta particle, and a neutrino.
Atomic Number and Mass Number:
During beta emission, the mass number of the parent nucleus and the daughter nucleus remains the same, as the total number of protons and neutrons remains constant. However, the atomic number of the daughter nucleus is greater than that of its parent by one unit. This means that the element changes to a different one with a higher atomic number.
Position on the Periodic Table:
After undergoing beta emission, the daughter nucleus is found one place to the right of the parent nucleus in the periodic table. This shift indicates the increase in atomic number and change in element due to the conversion of a neutron to a proton.
Summary:
In conclusion, the particle decay process depicted in the scenario 210 83 Bi → 210 84 Po is beta emission. This type of decay involves the conversion of a neutron into a proton, emitting an electron and a neutrino. The resulting daughter nucleus has an atomic number one unit higher than that of the parent nucleus, positioning it one place to the right in the periodic table.