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JAMB Chemistry 1998 Question 12

Question 12

Radioactivity

If an element X of atomic number Z and mass number Y is irradiated by an intense concentration of neutrons, the relevant nuclear equation is

  1. A.YZX + 10n → Y−1Z+1X
  2. B.YZX + 10n → Y+1ZX
  3. C.YZX + 10n → YZ+1X
  4. D.YZX + 10n → Y+1Z−1X
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B (YZX + 10n → Y+1ZX)

Explanation

Capturing a neutron adds 1 to the mass number but leaves the number of protons (atomic number) unchanged, giving a heavier isotope of the same element.