Question

Boron is used in control rods in nuclear power reactors because it is a good neutron absorber. When the isotope ${}^{10}\mathbf{B}$ captures a neutron, an alpha particle (helium nucleus) is emitted. What other atom is formed? Write a balanced equation.

Short answer

The balanced nuclear equation is given below.

${}_5{}^{10}\mathrm{B}+{}_0{}^1\mathrm{n}\to {}_2{}^4\mathrm{He}+{}_3{}^7\mathrm{Li}$

Step-by-step solution

Nuclear fission

The reaction involving bombardment of boron nuclifde with neutron to obtain two daughter nuclide is an example of nuclear fission reaction. In a nuclear fission reaction a heavier nuclei disintegrates into teo lighter nuclei.

Step 2:Balanced nuclear reaction

The balanced nuclear equation representing neutron capture by ${}^{10}\mathrm{B}$ is given below.

${}_5{}^{10}\mathrm{B}+{}_0{}^1\mathrm{n}\to {}_2{}^4\mathrm{He}+{}_3{}^7\mathrm{Li}$

The other atom formed is ${}_3{}^7\mathrm{Li}$.