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

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the masses (m3 and m4) in the context of nuclear reaction equations, specifically related to the reaction involving boron-10 and lithium-7. Participants are exploring the conservation of nucleons before and after the reaction.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to derive relationships between kinetic energies and masses using equations related to the reaction. Questions are raised about the validity of these equations and the definitions of nucleons in the context of the given reaction.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants seeking clarification on the problem statement and the definitions involved. Some guidance has been offered regarding the need for a clear problem statement and the interpretation of the nuclear reaction components.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted requirement to prove the conservation of nucleons, and participants are encouraged to include the specific reaction details in their statements. The original poster has expressed uncertainty about the calculations and the assumptions made in their equations.

kokolo
Messages
5
Reaction score
0
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?
 
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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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