Complete each of the following nuclear equations: (5.2) d. ²³ᵐ₁₂Mg → ? + ⁰₀γ

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the type of nuclear reaction. In this case, it involves the emission of a gamma ray (⁰₀γ), which is a form of electromagnetic radiation and does not change the atomic number or mass number of the nucleus.
2. Recognize that gamma emission typically accompanies other types of decay, but in this problem, it is the only emission mentioned, indicating a transition from an excited state to a lower energy state without changing the element.
3. Since the gamma emission does not alter the atomic number or mass number, the resulting nucleus remains the same element and isotope as the original.
4. Write the nuclear equation showing that the isotope remains unchanged: ²³ᵐ₁₂Mg → ²³₁₂Mg + ⁰₀γ.
5. Conclude that the magnesium nucleus transitions from an excited state (indicated by the 'm' for metastable) to a more stable state, emitting a gamma photon in the process.

Key Concepts

Nuclear Reactions

Nuclear reactions involve changes in an atom's nucleus and can result in the transformation of one element into another. They are characterized by the emission or absorption of particles, such as alpha particles, beta particles, or gamma rays. Understanding the types of nuclear reactions, including decay processes, is essential for completing nuclear equations.

Gamma Radiation

Gamma radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation emitted from the nucleus of an atom during radioactive decay. It is highly penetrating and carries no charge, making it distinct from alpha and beta radiation. In the context of the given equation, the emission of a gamma photon (⁰₀γ) indicates that the nucleus is transitioning to a lower energy state without changing its atomic number or mass number.

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. The notation ²³ᵐ₁₂Mg indicates a specific isotope of magnesium with a mass number of 23. Recognizing isotopes is crucial for understanding nuclear equations, as they determine the identity and stability of the resulting particles in a reaction.