Question

A nuclear reaction is given by,
 _ZX^A → _Z+1Y^A +_–1e⁰+\(\bar v\) represents 

• A. \(\beta\)-decay
• B. \(\gamma\)-decay
• C. fusion
• D. fission

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

The given nuclear reaction can be analyzed as follows:

The reaction is:

_{Z}^{A}\textrm{X} \rightarrow _{Z+1}^{A}\textrm{Y} + _{-1}^{0}\textrm{e} + \bar{\nu}

Here,:

• _{Z}^{A}\textrm{X} represents the parent nucleus
• _{Z+1}^{A}\textrm{Y} represents the daughter nucleus
• _{-1}^{0}\textrm{e} represents a beta particle (electron)
• \bar{\nu} represents an antineutrino

The reaction involves the conversion of a neutron into a proton within the nucleus, which results in the emission of a beta particle and an antineutrino. This process is known as \beta-decay.

Let's consider the options:

• \beta-decay: This is consistent with the nuclear reaction shown, where a neutron is converted into a proton, emitting a beta particle (electron) and an antineutrino.
• \gamma-decay: Involves the emission of a gamma photon without changing the number of protons or neutrons, which doesn't match the reaction given.
• Fusion: Involves combining two light nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, which is not represented here.
• Fission: Involves splitting a heavy nucleus into two lighter nuclei, which also doesn't match this reaction.

Thus, the given nuclear reaction represents \beta-decay. The correct answer is \beta-decay.