How Do You Calculate m3 and m4 in Nuclear Reaction Equations?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the masses (m3 and m4) in nuclear reaction equations, specifically in the context of the reaction 10B(n,α)7Li with an energy release of 2.8 MeV. Key equations provided include En=0, Ek(B)=0, and Q=Ek3(α)+Ek4(Li), leading to Ek4=m3/(m3+m4) * Q. Participants emphasize the importance of proving that the number of nucleons remains constant before and after the reaction, and clarify the meaning of the notation used in nuclear equations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of nuclear reaction equations
  • Familiarity with concepts of kinetic energy (Ek) in nuclear physics
  • Knowledge of nucleon conservation principles
  • Basic grasp of isotopes and their notation (e.g., 10B, 7Li)
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the conservation of nucleons in nuclear reactions
  • Study the calculation of kinetic energy in nuclear physics
  • Learn about the significance of energy release in nuclear reactions
  • Explore the notation and interpretation of isotopes in nuclear equations
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in nuclear physics, educators teaching nuclear reactions, and anyone involved in nuclear engineering or research requiring a deeper understanding of mass calculations in nuclear equations.

kokolo
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Homework Statement
I need to prove that number of nucleons is same before and after the reaction.
Relevant Equations
10B(n,α)7Li+ 2.8MeV
En=0 Ek(B)=0 Q=Ek3(α)+Ek4(Li) --Q=Ek3(1+m3/m4) (1)
p3=p4 /^2 -- 2*m3*Ek3=2*m4*Ek4 --- Ek4=m3/m4 * Ek3 (2)
(1) and (2) Ek4= m3/(m3+m4) * Q, but I'm not sure how to find m3 or m4 and if this is true
 
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"I need to prove that number of nucleons is same before and after the reaction" is not a problem statement. It is an expression of your need. Please post the problem statement as was given to you and be sure to include the reaction.
 
kokolo said:
Homework Statement: I need to prove that number of nucleons is same before and after the reaction.
Relevant Equations: 10B(n,α)7Li+ 2.8MeV

En=0 Ek(B)=0 Q=Ek3(α)+Ek4(Li) --Q=Ek3(1+m3/m4) (1)
p3=p4 /^2 -- 2*m3*Ek3=2*m4*Ek4 --- Ek4=m3/m4 * Ek3 (2)
(1) and (2) Ek4= m3/(m3+m4) * Q, but I'm not sure how to find m3 or m4 and if this is true
What are "number of nucleons" in 10B, n, the α-particle, and 7Li?
 
Untitled.png
 
How do you interpret what you posted in #4?
What do you have before the reaction?
What do you have after the reaction?

Also, when you write 5B10, what do the numbers "5" and "10" stand for?
 

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