SUMMARY
Cobalt-60 is radioactive despite having a neutron-to-proton (n/p) ratio of 1.22, which is below the commonly referenced threshold of 1.56 for radioactivity. This phenomenon is explained by the Mattauch rule, which states that among two isotopes with the same mass and differing by one proton, at least one must be radioactive. Cobalt-60, being an odd-odd isotope, does not fall into the category of the five stable isotopes that defy this rule, thus confirming its radioactive nature.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of nuclear physics concepts, particularly isotopes and radioactivity.
- Familiarity with the Mattauch rule and its implications in nuclear stability.
- Knowledge of neutron-to-proton (n/p) ratios and their significance in determining radioactivity.
- Basic principles of nuclear decay processes, including alpha decay and electron capture.
NEXT STEPS
- Research the Mattauch rule in detail and its exceptions in nuclear physics.
- Study the properties and decay processes of Cobalt-60, including its applications in medicine and industry.
- Explore the characteristics of odd-odd isotopes and their stability compared to even-even isotopes.
- Investigate other isotopes that violate the Mattauch rule, such as Tantalum-180 and their implications in nuclear science.
USEFUL FOR
Students and professionals in nuclear physics, researchers studying radioactivity, and anyone interested in the stability of isotopes and their applications in various fields.