IB Physics SL E 3 8 Decay Equations Questions

Balance SL nuclear-decay equations by conserving nucleon number and charge, identifying missing particles and decay sequences.

Exam points

Construct and interpret alpha, beta and gamma decay equations.
Use conservation of nucleon number and charge to identify missing particles and nuclides.
Explain electron capture and beta decay products including neutrinos and quark changes.

[Maximum number: 2]

A nucleus of tritium decays to a nucleus of helium-3. Identify the particles X and Y in the nuclear reaction equation for this decay.

{ }_{1}^{3} \mathrm{H} \rightarrow{ }_{2}^{3} \mathrm{He}+\mathrm{X}+\mathrm{Y}

X:
Y:

$\beta^{-}$ or ${ }_{-1}^{0} \mathrm{e}$ or $\mathrm{e}^{-}$ or electron or beta particle;
$\bar{v}$ or ${ }_{0}^{0} \bar{v}$ or antineutrino;

Marking guidance:

Allow answers in either order.

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IB Physics SL E 3 8 Decay Equations Questions question 1