Why Can't Neutron Emission Occur in K(40,19) Decay?

[Amith2006]

Homework Statement

1)Neutron emission is not a possible mode of decay for K(40,19).Why?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

I think it is because the neutron to proton ratio for potassium(40,19) is almost unity(more precisely N/P=1.1). So, neutron emission is not a mode of decay to gain stability. Is it right?

 

[Meir Achuz]

No. You have to look at the nucleus it would decay to, and compare masses.

 

[Amith2006]

No. You have to look at the nucleus it would decay to, and compare masses.

I found the Q value of the reaction and obtained a negative value(-7.8 MeV).
K(40,19)---> K(39,19) + neutron
So, it doesn't have sufficient energy for neutron emission to take place. Is that what u meant?

 

[Meir Achuz]

Yes...

 

[Amith2006]

Cool!Thanx mate.