Does the argon-40 nuclide lie within the band of stability (shown in the image below)? If not, how would you change the neutron-proton ratio for the nuclei to increase its stability?

• A. Argon-40 lies just below the band of stability. We should increase the neutron-to-proton ratio via positron emission to increase its stability
• B. Argon-40 lies just above the band of stability. We should reduce the neutron-to-proton ratio via beta decay to increase its stability
• C. Argon-40 lies beyond the band of stability. We should decrease both the protons and neutrons via alpha decay to increase its stability
• D. Argon-40 lies on the band of stability. It is stable and will not undergo radioactive decay

Answer: (B)