Maximum Helium Fraction: Neutron Decay Time & Rest Mass Difference

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on calculating the maximum Helium fraction (Yp) based on a neutron decay time of 89 seconds and a rest mass difference of 0.129 MeV between neutrons and protons. Participants highlight the need for additional context to accurately determine Yp, particularly regarding the decay process of free neutrons versus those within tritium atoms. The transformation of neutrons into protons results in hydrogen, but the conversation clarifies that the focus is on the conversion to Helium-3. Ultimately, the transformation process is essential for understanding the implications of the given parameters on Helium production. The discussion emphasizes the importance of precise definitions and context in nuclear decay scenarios.
bolahab
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Suppose the neutron decay time n was 89 sec. AND the difference in
rest mass between neutron to proton, Qn, was 0.129 MeV. What would
the maximum Helium fraction, Yp, be?
 
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bolahab said:
Suppose the neutron decay time n was 89 sec. AND the difference in
rest mass between neutron to proton, Qn, was 0.129 MeV. What would
the maximum Helium fraction, Yp, be?
One needs to provide more information in order to solve this problem. A free neutron decays into a proton, electron and antineutrino, so the product of free neutron decay would be hydrogen. Or is the neutron decaying in a tritium atom, which then is transformed to He-3?

Or does one mean hydrogen rather than He?
 
yes it is transformed into He-3, that was all the info from the question, but the rest info as it says in the book when it is transformed into He-3
 
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