Heavy Element Formation Learning Goal: Understand the mechanism through which he

Question

Heavy Element Formation Learning Goal: Understand the mechanism through which heavy elements are formed, and balance the equation associated with their formation. A Supernova forms when the gravity of the star is so great that the core of the star can no longer resist the force of gravity and collapses in on itself. As the matter in the star compresses it reaches an unstable state and explodes, blowing most of its matter into space. During the explosion, a great number of neutrons present allow for multiple neutron capture events to take place. This leads to the formation of heavy elements (Z > 58). An example of this type of reaction is the formation of Br from an Fe nucleus: Fe+23¹n[Fe]Br+9 The neutrons generated in the explosion are taken up by the 5626Fe nucleus to give an unstable intermediate which undergoes radioactive decay to give the more stable Br.

Part A. How many neutrons must an Fe nucleus capture to generate the unstable intermediate [³Fe] according to the equation: Fe+ ? 10n[³Fe]. Express your answer numerically as an integer.

Part B. How many electrons must the unstable intermediate [³Fe] release to give the ³Ge nucleus according to the equation: [³Fe]³Ge+ ? . Express your answer numerically as an integer.

Explanation / Answer

Part A

Fe+ + 17 1n[³Fe]

Let us calculate the number of extra neutrons in the unstable intermediate

73-56 = 17

So the number of neutrons to be absrobed = 22

Part B

The number of electrons to be released will be 32-26 = 6

[³Fe]³Ge+ 6

Related Questions

Navigate

• Browse (All)
• Browse H
• Subjects

Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.