Math

QuestionFind the missing element in the equation: 92238U24He+X { }_{92}^{238} \mathrm{U} \rightarrow{ }_{2}^{4} \mathrm{He}+\mathrm{X} .

Studdy Solution

STEP 1

Assumptions1. The nuclear equation is a balanced equation. . The atomic number and mass number are conserved in nuclear reactions.

STEP 2

In a balanced nuclear equation, the sum of the atomic numbers (subscripts) on the left side of the equation must equal the sum of the atomic numbers on the right side. Similarly, the sum of the mass numbers (superscripts) on the left side of the equation must equal the sum of the mass numbers on the right side.Let's denote the atomic number of the missing component as Z and the mass number as A. We can then write the following two equationsAtomic number balance92=2+Z92 =2 + ZMass number balance238=4+A238 =4 + A

STEP 3

Now, we can solve the atomic number balance equation for Z.
Z=922Z =92 -2

STEP 4

Calculate the value of Z.
Z=922=90Z =92 -2 =90

STEP 5

Next, we can solve the mass number balance equation for A.
A=2384A =238 -4

STEP 6

Calculate the value of A.
A=2384=234A =238 -4 =234

STEP 7

Now that we have the atomic number (Z) and the mass number (A) of the missing component, we can identify the element. The element with atomic number90 is Th (Thorium).
So, the missing component in the nuclear equation is 90234Th{ }_{90}^{234} \mathrm{Th}.

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