Write a nuclear equation for the indicated decay of each nuclide.
c. Tl-207 (beta)

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, beta, and gamma decay. In beta decay, a neutron in the nucleus is transformed into a proton, resulting in the emission of a beta particle (an electron or positron) and a change in the atomic number of the element.

Beta Decay

Beta decay specifically involves the conversion of a neutron into a proton, which increases the atomic number of the element by one while keeping the mass number the same. This process results in the formation of a new element. For example, when Thallium-207 undergoes beta decay, it transforms into Lead-207, releasing a beta particle in the process.

Nuclear Equations

Nuclear equations are used to represent nuclear reactions, showing the initial and final states of the nuclei involved. They typically include the symbols for the elements, their atomic numbers, and mass numbers. In the case of beta decay, the equation will show the original nuclide, the emitted beta particle, and the resulting nuclide, ensuring that both mass and charge are conserved.