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

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the type of decay: Beta decay involves the conversion of a neutron into a proton, with the emission of a beta particle (an electron) and an antineutrino.
2. Write the initial nuclide: The nuclide given is Thallium-207, which is represented as \( ^{207}_{81}\text{Tl} \).
3. Determine the product of the decay: In beta decay, the atomic number increases by 1 (since a neutron is converted into a proton), but the mass number remains the same.
4. Write the nuclear equation: The beta decay of \( ^{207}_{81}\text{Tl} \) results in \( ^{207}_{82}\text{Pb} \) (Lead-207) and a beta particle \( \beta^- \) (or \( ^{0}_{-1}\text{e} \)).
5. Combine the components into the nuclear equation: \( ^{207}_{81}\text{Tl} \rightarrow ^{207}_{82}\text{Pb} + ^{0}_{-1}\text{e} \).

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.