Complete and balance the nuclear equations for the following fission or fusion reactions:
(a) ²₁H + ²₁H → ³₂He + _
(b) ²³⁹₉₂U + ¹₀n¡ → ¹³³₅₁Sb + ⁹⁸₄₁Nb + _ ¹₀n

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the type of reaction: This is a fusion reaction where two deuterium nuclei (\(^2_1\text{H}\)) combine.
2. Write the initial reactants: \(^2_1\text{H} + ^2_1\text{H}\).
3. Write the known product: \(^3_2\text{He}\).
4. Determine the missing product by balancing the atomic and mass numbers. The sum of the mass numbers on the left (2 + 2 = 4) must equal the sum on the right (3 + x), and the sum of the atomic numbers on the left (1 + 1 = 2) must equal the sum on the right (2 + y).
5. Solve for the missing particle: The missing particle is a neutron, \(^1_0\text{n}\), since it balances both the mass number (4 = 3 + 1) and the atomic number (2 = 2 + 0).

Key Concepts

Nuclear Reactions

Nuclear reactions involve changes in an atom's nucleus and can result in the transformation of elements. They include processes such as fission, where a heavy nucleus splits into lighter nuclei, and fusion, where light nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus. Understanding the basic principles of these reactions is essential for balancing nuclear equations.

Balancing Nuclear Equations

Balancing nuclear equations requires ensuring that both the mass number and atomic number are conserved during the reaction. This means that the total number of protons and neutrons before the reaction must equal the total after the reaction. Identifying the missing particles, such as neutrons or protons, is crucial for achieving balance.

Isotopes

Isotopes are variants of a particular chemical element that have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons, resulting in different mass numbers. In nuclear reactions, isotopes play a significant role as they can participate in fission or fusion processes. Recognizing the isotopes involved helps in accurately writing and balancing nuclear equations.