Co60 beta- Decay , question.

In summary, the conversation discusses the decay of Co60 to Ni60 and the emission of two photons in the process. The question of why Co60 decays to an excited state of Ni60 instead of directly to its ground state is raised. The concept of "selection rules" is mentioned, specifically the rule that states ΔJ=±1,0. However, the individual is unsure of how this rule applies in this scenario, as Co60 has J=5 and Ni60 has J=4. They question why Ni60 cannot have J=5 like Co60 and why the transition of ΔJ=-1 occurs instead of ΔJ=0.
  • #1
Raz91
21
0
Hello,

my question is :
C60 ---> Ni60+e-+anti-neutrino

why does Co60 decay to an excited state of Ni60 and not directly to its ground state?
and why does the Ni emite two photons (first transition from the second excited state to the first excited state and from the first excited state to the ground state) and not directly to its ground state?

thank you! :)
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
Do you know what "selection rules" are?
 
  • #3
yeah i know

i know that ΔJ=±1,0

Just don't understand how does it applied here ...
 
  • #4
as i saw - Co60 has J=5 and Ni J=4
so why Ni can't be with J=5 same as Co ?
why the transition of ΔJ=-1 is taking place and not ΔJ=0?

thank u :)
 

1. What is Co60 beta-decay?

Co60 beta-decay is a type of radioactive decay in which the nucleus of a cobalt-60 atom emits a beta particle, which is an electron or positron. This process results in the formation of a new element with a different atomic number.

2. How does Co60 beta-decay occur?

Co60 beta-decay occurs when a cobalt-60 atom has an excess of neutrons in its nucleus, making it unstable. In order to become more stable, the nucleus emits a beta particle, which causes the number of neutrons to decrease and the number of protons to increase, transforming the cobalt-60 atom into a different element.

3. What are the products of Co60 beta-decay?

The products of Co60 beta-decay vary depending on the type of beta particle emitted. If an electron is emitted, the new element formed will have the same atomic number but a different mass number. If a positron is emitted, the new element will have the same mass number but a different atomic number.

4. What is the half-life of Co60 in beta-decay?

The half-life of Co60 in beta-decay is 5.27 years. This means that it takes 5.27 years for half of the original amount of cobalt-60 to decay into a new element.

5. What are the uses of Co60 beta-decay?

Co60 beta-decay has several practical uses, including medical applications such as cancer treatment and sterilization of medical equipment. It is also used in industrial radiography to inspect the integrity of structures and materials, and in radioisotope thermoelectric generators to power satellites and other space probes.

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