Write a nuclear equation for the indicated decay of each nuclide. d. N-13 (positron emission)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the type of decay: Positron emission involves the conversion of a proton into a neutron, releasing a positron (\( \beta^+ \)) and a neutrino.
2. Write the initial nuclide: The nuclide given is \( ^{13}_{7}\text{N} \), which means it has 13 nucleons (protons + neutrons) and 7 protons.
3. Determine the resulting nuclide: Since a proton is converted into a neutron, the atomic number decreases by 1, resulting in \( ^{13}_{6}\text{C} \) (Carbon-13).
4. Write the nuclear equation: \( ^{13}_{7}\text{N} \rightarrow ^{13}_{6}\text{C} + \beta^+ \).
5. Ensure conservation of mass and charge: Check that the sum of mass numbers and atomic numbers are equal on both sides of the equation.

Key Concepts

Nuclear Decay

Nuclear decay is the process by which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by emitting radiation. This can occur in various forms, including alpha decay, beta decay, and positron emission. Understanding the type of decay is crucial for writing accurate nuclear equations, as it determines the particles emitted and the resulting nuclide.

Positron Emission

Positron emission is a type of beta decay where a proton in the nucleus is transformed into a neutron, resulting in the emission of a positron (the antimatter counterpart of an electron) and a neutrino. This process decreases the atomic number of the nuclide by one while keeping the mass number unchanged, leading to the formation of a new element.

Nuclear Equations

Nuclear equations represent the transformation of one nuclide into another during radioactive decay. They are written to show the initial nuclide, the emitted particles, and the resulting nuclide. For positron emission, the equation will include the original nuclide, the emitted positron, and the new nuclide formed after the decay.