Identify and write the symbol for each of the five nuclides in the decay series shown in Problem.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of a decay series. A decay series is a sequence of radioactive decays that certain isotopes undergo until they reach a stable form.
2. Step 2: Identify the starting nuclide in the decay series. This is typically a heavy, unstable isotope that undergoes radioactive decay.
3. Step 3: Determine the type of decay each nuclide undergoes. Common types include alpha decay (loss of a helium nucleus) and beta decay (conversion of a neutron to a proton or vice versa).
4. Step 4: Write the symbol for each nuclide in the series. The symbol is typically written as \( ^A_ZX \), where \( A \) is the mass number, \( Z \) is the atomic number, and \( X \) is the chemical symbol.
5. Step 5: Repeat the process for each nuclide in the series until you reach a stable isotope.

Key Concepts

Nuclide

A nuclide is a distinct nuclear species characterized by its number of protons and neutrons. Each nuclide is represented by a symbol that includes its chemical element symbol, atomic number (number of protons), and mass number (total number of protons and neutrons). Understanding nuclides is essential for identifying elements in decay series.

Decay Series

A decay series is a sequence of nuclear reactions in which an unstable nuclide transforms into a series of other nuclides until a stable nuclide is formed. Each step in the series involves the emission of radiation, such as alpha or beta particles, and results in the formation of new nuclides. Recognizing the order and types of decay is crucial for determining the symbols of the nuclides involved.

Symbol Representation

The symbol representation of a nuclide includes the element's chemical symbol, the atomic number as a subscript, and the mass number as a superscript. For example, the symbol for carbon-14 is written as ¹⁴C, where 14 is the mass number and C is the chemical symbol for carbon. Mastery of this notation is vital for accurately identifying and writing the symbols of nuclides in a decay series.