The equation \(^{14}_{7}N + ^{4}_{2}He \rightarrow ^{17}_{8}O + ^{1}_{1}P\) represents
The equation \(^{14}_{7}N + ^{4}_{2}He \rightarrow ^{17}_{8}O + ^{1}_{1}P\) represents
- A) nuclear fusion
- B) nuclear fission
- C) artificial radioactivity
- D) nuclear fission using positron
Correct Answer: C) artificial radioactivity
Explanation
The given equation is: \(^{14}_{7}N + ^{4}_{2}He \rightarrow ^{17}_{8}O + ^{1}_{1}P\). This equation represents a nuclear reaction in which a nitrogen-14 nucleus combines with an alpha particle (helium-4 nucleus) to form an oxygen-17 nucleus and a proton.
This type of reaction does not fall under the category of nuclear fusion or fission. Innuclear fusion, two or more lighter nuclei come together to form a larger nucleus, usually accompanied by the release of energy. Innuclear fission, a heavier nucleus splits into two or more lighter nuclei, again accompanied by the release of energy.
However, the given reaction involves the bombardment of a stable nucleus with a particle to produce a new nucleus and another particle. This process is known asartificial radioactivity, which is the correct answer (Option C). Artificial radioactivity is induced by scientists in a laboratory setting, as opposed to natural radioactivity, which occurs spontaneously in nature.