Chapter 21: Problem 65
The radioactive isotope \({ }^{60} \mathrm{Co}_{27}\) which is used in the treatment of cancer can be made by (n, p) reaction. For this reaction, the target nucleus is (a) \({ }_{28} \mathrm{Ni}^{59}\) (b) \({ }_{27} \mathrm{Co}^{59}\) (c) \({ }_{28} \mathrm{Ni}^{60}\) (d) \({ }_{27} \mathrm{Co}^{60}\)
Short Answer
Step by step solution
Understanding the (n, p) Reaction
Identifying Target Nucleus for Reaction
Matching Atomic Numbers and Mass Numbers
Verifying Options
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Nuclear Reactions
Types of nuclear reactions include:
- Fusion: Combining two lighter nuclei to form a more massive nucleus, releasing energy.
- Fission: Splitting a heavy nucleus into lighter nuclei, often releasing energy in the process.
- (n, p) Reactions: A special type of nuclear reaction where a neutron is captured, and a proton is emitted.
Atomic Nucleus
Key characteristics of nuclei include:
- Atomic Number (Z): The number of protons in a nucleus, determining the element's identity. For example, Carbon has an atomic number of 6.
- Mass Number (A): The total number of protons and neutrons. It roughly equals the atomic mass.
- Isotopes: Variants of a given element with different neutron numbers but the same atomic number.
Neutron Capture
Important points about neutron capture include:
- Typically happens in elements with a high atomic number and can occur naturally or be induced by neutron flux in nuclear reactors.
- This process is a key part of the (n, p) reaction, changing the atomic structure by creating a short-lived isotope that may undergo decay.
- Neutron capture plays a crucial role in the creation of heavier elements within stars, through slow (s-process) and rapid (r-process) nucleosynthesis.
Proton Emission
Key aspects of proton emission include:
- Occurs in proton-rich nuclei, often with more protons than neutrons, leading to instability.
- As a result of this reaction, the element is transformed into another element. For example, Carbon could become Boron after emitting a proton.
- This process is used in specialized radiation therapy treatments and contributes to our understanding of nuclear stability and isotopic chains.