Question: Why is Cr2452the most stable isotope of chromium?

Short Answer

Expert verified

Because it has an even number of protons and neutrons, and the number of neutrons is a magic number (N=28).

Step by step solution

01

N/Z ratio

Neutron to proton ratio is important for lighter stable nuclei(N/Z)is1:1

As the mass of stable nuclei increases, neutron to proton ratio increases as well.

When the nucleus is more stable . when the number is even numbers are unusual.

Nuclides containing the values of 2,8,20,28,50,82(andN = 126)are extremely stable. These are known as magic numbers and represent the number of protons and neutrons in filled nucleon levels.

02

Number of protons and Neutrons Cr2452

There are a total of protons Z=24.

The amount of neutrons isN = A - Z = 52 - 24 = 28

The proton-neutron ratio is NZ=2824= 1.17:1

This isotope's stability is due to the fact that it's N/Z.

The ratio is stable because it has an even number of protons and neutrons, and the number of neutrons is a magic number N=28.

03

Graphical representation of zone of stability

Let us plot the graph:

Therefore, the isotope's stability is due to the fact that it's N/Z. The ratio is stable.

Because it has an even number of protons and neutrons, and the number of neutrons is a magic number N=28.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.

Sign-up for free