Chapter 24, Problem 59A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Transmutation is to be defined.

Concept introduction:

Radioactive decay is unstable nuclei that lose energy by emitting radiation in a spontaneous process. Until they form stable atoms unstable atoms undergo radioactive decay, often of a dissimilar element.

Answer to Problem 59A

A reaction, in which an atom’s atomic number is altered, is termed as transmutation.

All reactions are transmutation reaction exclude gamma emission.

Explanation of Solution

Radioactive decay associates conversion of an element into another element exclude for emission of gamma radiation. Such a reaction, in which an atom’s atomic number is altered, is termed as transmutation.

Exclude gamma emission all reactions are transmutation reaction.

Conclusion

Alternation of an atom of one element to an atom of another element is termed as transmutation.