Which Represents A Balanced Nuclear Equation?A. { { } {11}^{23} \text{Na} \longrightarrow { } {12}^{24} \text{Mg} + { } 1^1 \text{H}$}$B. { { } {11}^{24} \text{Na} \longrightarrow { } {12}^{24} \text{Mg} + { } {-1}^0 \text{e}$}$C.

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Introduction

In chemistry, nuclear equations are used to describe the changes that occur in the nucleus of an atom. These equations involve the transformation of one element into another through nuclear reactions. A balanced nuclear equation is a fundamental concept in nuclear chemistry, where the number of protons and neutrons on both sides of the equation is equal. In this article, we will explore the concept of balanced nuclear equations and examine three given options to determine which one represents a balanced nuclear equation.

What is a Balanced Nuclear Equation?

A balanced nuclear equation is a nuclear equation where the number of protons and neutrons on both sides of the equation is equal. This means that the atomic number (number of protons) and the mass number (number of protons and neutrons) of the reactants and products are the same. A balanced nuclear equation is essential in nuclear chemistry as it helps to predict the outcome of nuclear reactions and understand the underlying mechanisms.

Atomic Number and Mass Number

The atomic number (Z) of an element is the number of protons present in the nucleus of an atom. The mass number (A) is the total number of protons and neutrons present in the nucleus. The atomic number determines the identity of an element, while the mass number determines the isotope of an element.

Option A: {{ }{11}^{23} \text{Na} \longrightarrow { }{12}^{24} \text{Mg} + { }_1^1 \text{H}$}$

Let's examine the first option:

  • The atomic number of sodium (Na) is 11, and the mass number is 23.
  • The atomic number of magnesium (Mg) is 12, and the mass number is 24.
  • The atomic number of hydrogen (H) is 1, and the mass number is 1.

In this option, the atomic number of sodium (11) is not equal to the sum of the atomic numbers of magnesium (12) and hydrogen (1). The mass number of sodium (23) is also not equal to the sum of the mass numbers of magnesium (24) and hydrogen (1). Therefore, this option does not represent a balanced nuclear equation.

Option B: {{ }{11}^{24} \text{Na} \longrightarrow { }{12}^{24} \text{Mg} + { }_{-1}^0 \text{e}$}$

Let's examine the second option:

  • The atomic number of sodium (Na) is 11, and the mass number is 24.
  • The atomic number of magnesium (Mg) is 12, and the mass number is 24.
  • The atomic number of an electron (e) is -1, and the mass number is 0.

In this option, the atomic number of sodium (11) is not equal to the sum of the atomic numbers of magnesium (12) and the electron (not applicable since the electron has a negative charge). The mass number of sodium (24) is equal to the mass number of magnesium (24), but the mass number of the electron is 0. Therefore, this option does not represent a balanced nuclear equation.

Option C: {{ }{11}^{23} \text{Na} \longrightarrow { }{10}^{23} \text{Ne} + { }_1^0 \text{e}$}$

Let's examine the third option:

  • The atomic number of sodium (Na) is 11, and the mass number is 23.
  • The atomic number of neon (Ne) is 10, and the mass number is 23.
  • The atomic number of an electron (e) is 1, and the mass number is 0.

In this option, the atomic number of sodium (11) is equal to the sum of the atomic numbers of neon (10) and the electron (1). The mass number of sodium (23) is equal to the mass number of neon (23). Therefore, this option represents a balanced nuclear equation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a balanced nuclear equation is a fundamental concept in nuclear chemistry where the number of protons and neutrons on both sides of the equation is equal. We examined three options and determined that only option C represents a balanced nuclear equation. This option shows that the atomic number and mass number of the reactants and products are equal, making it a balanced nuclear equation.

References

  • Chemistry: An Atoms First Approach, by Steven S. Zumdahl
  • Nuclear Chemistry, by James E. House
  • General Chemistry, by Linus Pauling

Further Reading

  • Nuclear Reactions: A Comprehensive Guide
  • Radioactive Decay: A Study of Nuclear Stability
  • Nuclear Fission: A Review of the Process

Introduction

In our previous article, we discussed the concept of balanced nuclear equations and examined three options to determine which one represents a balanced nuclear equation. In this article, we will provide a Q&A section to help clarify any doubts and provide further information on balanced nuclear equations.

Q: What is a balanced nuclear equation?

A: A balanced nuclear equation is a nuclear equation where the number of protons and neutrons on both sides of the equation is equal. This means that the atomic number (number of protons) and the mass number (number of protons and neutrons) of the reactants and products are the same.

Q: Why is a balanced nuclear equation important?

A: A balanced nuclear equation is essential in nuclear chemistry as it helps to predict the outcome of nuclear reactions and understand the underlying mechanisms. It also helps to ensure that the number of protons and neutrons is conserved in the reaction.

Q: How do I determine if a nuclear equation is balanced?

A: To determine if a nuclear equation is balanced, you need to check if the atomic number and mass number of the reactants and products are equal. You can do this by adding up the atomic numbers and mass numbers of the reactants and products and comparing them.

Q: What is the difference between a balanced nuclear equation and an unbalanced nuclear equation?

A: A balanced nuclear equation is a nuclear equation where the number of protons and neutrons on both sides of the equation is equal. An unbalanced nuclear equation is a nuclear equation where the number of protons and neutrons on both sides of the equation is not equal.

Q: Can a nuclear equation be both balanced and unbalanced at the same time?

A: No, a nuclear equation cannot be both balanced and unbalanced at the same time. A nuclear equation is either balanced or unbalanced, but not both.

Q: How do I write a balanced nuclear equation?

A: To write a balanced nuclear equation, you need to start with the reactants and products and then balance the atomic numbers and mass numbers. You can do this by adding or removing particles such as protons, neutrons, and electrons.

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when writing a balanced nuclear equation?

A: Some common mistakes to avoid when writing a balanced nuclear equation include:

  • Not balancing the atomic numbers and mass numbers
  • Adding or removing particles without checking if they are necessary
  • Not considering the conservation of protons and neutrons

Q: Can a balanced nuclear equation be used to predict the outcome of a nuclear reaction?

A: Yes, a balanced nuclear equation can be used to predict the outcome of a nuclear reaction. By balancing the atomic numbers and mass numbers, you can determine the products of the reaction and predict the outcome.

Q: What are some real-world applications of balanced nuclear equations?

A: Some real-world applications of balanced nuclear equations include:

  • Nuclear power generation
  • Nuclear medicine
  • Radiation therapy
  • Nuclear waste management

Conclusion

In conclusion, balanced nuclear equations are a fundamental concept in nuclear chemistry that helps to predict the outcome of nuclear reactions and understand the underlying mechanisms. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can determine if a nuclear equation is balanced and write a balanced nuclear equation.