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Chapter 4: Problem 35

What happens in the nucleus of an atom when a transmutation takes place?

Short Answer

Expert verified
During a transmutation, changes occur in the nucleus of the atom, involving alterations in the number of protons or neutrons, thereby transforming the atom from one element to another. This process may also involve the absorption or release of energy.

Step by step solution

01

Understand the concept of transmutation

Transmutation is the conversion of one element into another. This process requires changes to the nucleus of an atom because the quantity of protons in an atom determines the element to which the atom belongs.
02

Identify changes during transmutation

When transmutation occurs, the number of protons or neutrons in the nucleus changes. This results in the conversion of one element into another.
03

Understand the resulting effects

These changes in the nucleus may also result in the release or absorption of energy. The changes can occur naturally (through radioactive decay) or can be induced artificially (via nuclear reactions or particle acceleration).

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Which of the following ions has the electron configuration of a noble gas: \(\mathrm{Ca}^{+}\) or \(\mathrm{Cl}^{-} ?\) (Hint: Write the electron configuration for each ion.)

Give an example of a nuclear reaction. Describe the process by which it takes place.

If an element breaks when it is struck with a hammer, could it be a metal? Explain.

What property do the noble gases share? How do the electron configurations of the noble gases give them this shared property?

How do the electron configurations of the lanthanide and actinide elements differ from the electron configurations of the other transition metals?
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