Atomic Structure
Nuclear Equations
To write and balance nuclear equations for alpha and beta decay and explain how the nucleus changes.
What you will learn
What changes during alpha decay
What changes during beta-minus decay
How mass number and atomic number are affected
How to complete and balance nuclear equations
How to identify the new element after decay
Explanation
Nuclear equations conserve total mass number and total atomic number. Alpha emission reduces the parent mass number by 4 and atomic number by 2. Beta-minus emission keeps mass number unchanged and raises atomic number by 1; the emitted electron is represented by mass number 0 and atomic number −1. Example: A nucleus with A = 14 and Z = 6 undergoes beta-minus decay. Determine the daughter A and Z. Beta has A = 0 and Z = −1. Daughter A = 14; Z = 7. Check 6 = 7 + (−1). Give a reason. Compare cases.