The discussion revolves around the radiogenic properties of the tritium isotope of hydrogen and the instability of carbon-14, exploring the underlying principles that contribute to the stability and instability of these isotopes. The scope includes theoretical aspects of nuclear stability and potential connections to models such as the semi-empirical mass formula and quark theory.
Participants do not reach a consensus on the specific criteria for stability and instability, and multiple views on the underlying principles are presented, indicating an unresolved discussion.
The discussion includes references to the stability band and types of decay without fully resolving the mathematical or theoretical frameworks involved. There is also mention of external resources for further information.
In both cases and excess of neutrons!rieman zeta said:To all: In some detail what makes the tritium isotope of hydrogen radiogenic?
And since C12 and C13 are both stable what makes C14 unstable?
Thanks
Rieman Zeta
Well there is that. There is more or less a stability band. On either side, one finds a radionuclide, but its not very straightforward. To few neutrons will usually lead to positron emission or electron capture. To many neutrons will lead to beta or alpha decay, but alpha decay is restricted to the heavy elements from Bi on up (Bi 210 is the lightest nuclide to undergo spontaneous alpha emission).rieman zeta said:Thank you for your reply. I was hoping for a connection to some underlying principle. For example, if you add the right number of neutrons then stability ensues. The wrong number and you get instability.
I'll get back to you on that.rieman zeta said:Perhaps it could be approached through the semi-empirical formula or quark theory?