Question

When a target nucleus is bombarded by a beam of the appropriate particles, it is possible to produce a) a less massive nucleus, but not a more massive one. b) a more massive nucleus, but not a less massive one. c) a nucleus with a smaller charge number, but not one with a larger charge number. d) a nucleus with a larger charge number, but not one with a smaller charge number. e) a nucleus with either a larger or smaller charge number.

Short answer

a) A more massive nucleus with the same charge number b) A less massive nucleus with the same charge number c) A nucleus with a larger charge number d) A nucleus with a smaller charge number e) A nucleus with either a larger or smaller charge number Answer: e) A nucleus with either a larger or smaller charge number

Step-by-step solution

Examine Nuclear Reactions

When a target nucleus is bombarded by a beam of particles, several types of nuclear reactions can occur: Fusion (merging of two lighter nuclei to form a heavier nucleus), fission (splitting of a heavier nucleus into smaller nuclei), and decay processes involving the absorption or emission of light particles.

Consider Fusion Reactions

In fusion reactions, the incident particle may fuse with the target nucleus, resulting in a more massive nucleus. This means the mass number and the charge number of the resulting nucleus will increase.

Consider Fission Reactions

During fission reactions, a heavy nucleus splits into smaller nuclei. In such cases, the mass numbers of the resulting nuclei will be smaller than the initial nucleus. However, we are looking for changes in an individual nucleus rather than the whole reaction products.

Consider Decay Processes

Some nuclear reactions involve the target nucleus either emitting or absorbing particles. This can lead to a change in the charge number and the mass number of the nucleus. For example, when a neutron is captured, both the mass and charge numbers can increase if the reaction involves a subsequent beta decay. Similarly, when an alpha particle is emitted, both mass and charge numbers decrease.

Evaluate the Options

Based on our understanding of nuclear reactions: Option a) is incorrect because a more massive nucleus can be formed through fusion reactions. Option b) is incorrect because a less massive nucleus can be potentially formed through decay processes. Option c) is incorrect because a nucleus with a larger charge number can be formed through fusion or decay processes. Option d) is incorrect because a nucleus with a smaller charge number can be formed through decay processes.

Choose the Correct Option

Option e) is the correct choice, as it states that a nucleus with either a larger or smaller charge number can be produced when a target nucleus is bombarded by a beam of the appropriate particles.