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The nucleus 82Pb214 emits an electron and becomes nuclide X. Which of the following shows the CORRECT atomic and mass number of nuclide X?

Correct answer: D. D

  • A. A
  • B. B
  • C. C
  • D. D

Explanation

The question describes the nucleus ⁸²Pb²¹⁴ emitting an electron. This process is known as beta-minus decay (β⁻ decay).In beta-minus decay: * A neutron within the nucleus transforms into a proton, an electron (which is emitted), and an antineutrino. * The atomic number (Z), which represents the number of protons, increases by 1 because a neutron converts into a proton. * The mass number (A), which represents the total number of protons and neutrons, remains unchanged because one neutron is replaced by one proton, keeping the total count the same.Given the initial nuclide is ⁸²Pb²¹⁴: * Initial Atomic Number (Z) = 82 * Initial Mass Number (A) = 214After emitting an electron (beta-minus decay): * New Atomic Number (Z') = Z + 1 = 82 + 1 = 83 * New Mass Number (A') = A = 214Therefore, the nuclide X will have an atomic number of 83 and a mass number of 214

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About Radioactive Decay

Radioactive decay is the spontaneous transformation of unstable nuclei, described by decay constant, activity, half life and the exponential decay law. Work includes alpha, beta and gamma emissions, decay equations and remaining nuclei, with half life distinguished from the time required for complete decay.

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