Calculating Binding Energy for N-13 Nucleus and Predicting Decay Reaction

[BenLi]

Homework Statement

1) Find the binding energy of N-13 nucleus, if the isotope of N-14 is more stable, what is the equation for the expected decay reaction.

Homework Equations

E= mc^2

The Attempt at a Solution

So I've figured out the binding energy, but I don't quite know what the problem is asking. Alpha, beta (both types), and gamma decay won't get N-13 to N-14.

 

[Dick]

I understand your confusion. Near as I can tell N-13 decays to C-13 via positron emission. To get to N-14 it would have to absorb something. Like maybe a neutron. I don't think the stability of N-14 has much to do with the problem.

 

[alphysicist]

I don't think the problem is asking for a decay process from N-13 to N-14; I believe it is saying that if you know that N-14 is more stable than N-13, what would the expected decay process of N-13 be?

So the 7/7 ratio of protons and neutrons in the N-14 nucleus is more stable than the 7/6 ratio for N-13. The preferred ratio is 1:1, so since the N-13 is proton rich we would expect positron emission.