Why is C-14 Radioactive Despite Low N/P Ratio?

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C-14 is radioactive despite its low neutron-to-proton (n/p) ratio, which is often misunderstood. The concept of a strict n/p ratio limit for stability is a myth; many unstable nuclei can have n/p ratios below 1.5. The distinction between stable nuclei and unstable ones is crucial, as not all unstable nuclei exceed this ratio. Additionally, certain stable isotopes, like Lead-207, challenge the idea of a fixed n/p ratio for stability. The discussion highlights that nuclear stability is influenced by various factors, including "magic numbers" of protons and neutrons.
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Why c - 14 is radio active though n/p ratio is less than 1.5?
 
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That is not a rule. Most radioactive elements do not have n/p > 1.5. That's a myth
 
Do not confuse the statement "There are no stable nuclei with n/p > 1.5" with the statement "All unstable nuclei have n/p > 1.5". See the difference? The first one is true. The second one most definitely isn't.
 
dauto said:
Do not confuse the statement "There are no stable nuclei with n/p > 1.5" with the statement "All unstable nuclei have n/p > 1.5". See the difference? The first one is true. The second one most definitely isn't.
Lead-207 is (experimentally1) stable with 82 protons and 125 neutrons, 125/82=1.524.
There are a few other examples, see the linked list.
 
mfb said:
Lead-207 is (experimentally1) stable with 82 protons and 125 neutrons, 125/82=1.524.
There are a few other examples, see the linked list.

That's exactly my point. This rule is just an approximate rule of thumb...
 
thank you!
I've studied in class about something called 'magic numbers' where nuclei having 2, 8, 20, 28, 50, 82 or 126 protons or neutrons or both (seperately) are exceptionally stable compared to their respective neighbouring nuclides. So, they too make an exception.
 

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