Radioactive Decay: P to Q vs. S to R?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the processes of radioactive decay involving nuclei P, Q, R, and S, concluding that the transition from P to Q is the most likely to occur due to the formation of a more stable nucleus. Both processes, P to Q and S to R, lead to the creation of a more stable nucleus, but the key factor is the increase in binding energy associated with the P to Q transition. The participants emphasize the importance of understanding nuclear binding energy and its relation to stability in determining the direction of these reactions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Nuclear binding energy concepts
  • Understanding of fission processes
  • Knowledge of unstable and stable nuclei
  • Basic principles of radioactive decay
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the concept of nuclear binding energy and its calculations
  • Study the mechanisms of fission and fusion reactions
  • Explore the stability of isotopes and their decay pathways
  • Learn about the role of nucleons in nuclear reactions
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students in nuclear physics, educators teaching radioactive decay concepts, and researchers exploring nuclear stability and reactions.

desmond iking
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Homework Statement


the variation of nuclear binding energy per nucelon of nuclei P , Q , R and S are shown.
Which process most likely to occur?

the ans is P to Q ... why not S to R ?

both
P to Q and S to R involve formation of unstable nucleus to more stable nucleus...

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

 

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1. Radioactive decay is the process fission. What will this do with the number of nucleons?
Your answer to this should tell you which way any likely reaction would go, either:
  • S ##\rightarrow## R and Q ##\rightarrow## P.
  • S ##\leftarrow## R and Q ##\leftarrow## P.
2. To achieve a more stable atom, that is a resulting atom with a higher binding energy, which way will the respective reactions go?

As soon as you know the answer to these two conditions, only one possible option will remain :)...

H.
 
Last edited:
To achieve more stable atom either p to q or r to s will occur...
 
Buy why the ans is p to q ?
 
I think you need to read my previous reply a bit more careful ;)..

Both 1. and 2. Has to be fulfilled.. Also, your statement about stability, are both correct? Remember, higher binding energy ##\rightarrow## more stable.
 
Do the problem actually mentions "radioactive decay"?
How is a decay in which the number of nucleons increases?
 

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