Nuclear Reaction: Neutron & Plutonium-239

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the nuclear reaction involving a neutron striking a Plutonium-239 (239Pu) nucleus, resulting in the formation of Barium-142 (142Ba) and Strontium-97 (97Sr). Participants emphasize the conservation of nucleons, stating that the total number of protons and neutrons must remain constant throughout the reaction. The conversation highlights the importance of accounting for the additional neutron involved in the reaction, which contributes to the overall balance of the equation and initiates a chain reaction.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of nuclear reactions and conservation laws
  • Familiarity with isotopes, specifically Plutonium-239 and Barium-142
  • Basic knowledge of neutron interactions in nuclear physics
  • Ability to balance nuclear equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of nuclear fission and chain reactions
  • Study the properties and decay processes of Strontium-97
  • Learn about neutron capture and its effects on nuclear stability
  • Explore the applications of Plutonium-239 in nuclear reactors
USEFUL FOR

Students studying nuclear physics, educators teaching nuclear reactions, and researchers interested in the behavior of isotopes in fission processes.

kirsten_2009
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Homework Statement


A neutron strikes a Plutonium-239 (239Pu) nucleus and creates Barium-142 (142Ba). What other element is created?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution



I actually have no idea...could someone just start me off? Thanks!
 
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Look up plutonium and its proton count and similarly for barium then use your powers of deduction.

Show us your thought process to get your answer.
 
since there is a difference of 38 protons that are "missing" would it be Strontium that is also created?
 
Yes.

Number of nucleons is conserved. You have to have the same number of protons and the same number of neutrons on both sides of the reaction equation. This is not different from balancing chemical reaction (just then you conserve number of atoms and charge, which is actually applying the same conservation principles).
 
Got it! Thank you =)
 
Sorry, one last question. Would it be Strontium-97 since that is the difference between 239 and 142?
 
Yes and no. Yes - you are right about accounting, number of neutrons after the reaction must equal number of neutrons after the reaction. No - reaction was initiated by an additional neutron, so you should take it into account as well, plus, in such reactions free neutrons are produced (and they further break more nuclei, which is why we call it a chain reaction), and these have to be accounted for too.
 

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