Band of stability
Definition
The band of stability is a graphical region on a plot of neutron number (N) versus proton number (Z) where stable nuclei are found. Nuclei within this band have a balanced ratio of neutrons to protons, making them non-radioactive.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- Nuclei outside the band of stability are typically unstable and undergo radioactive decay.
- The band of stability shows that lighter elements require nearly equal numbers of protons and neutrons for stability, while heavier elements need more neutrons than protons.
- Common types of decay for nuclei outside the band include alpha decay, beta decay, and positron emission.
- As atomic number increases, the neutron-to-proton ratio in stable nuclei also increases due to repulsive forces between protons.
- Isotopes that lie above the band tend to have too many neutrons and often undergo beta decay to become more stable.
Review Questions
- What is the significance of the band of stability in nuclear chemistry?
- Why do heavier elements require a higher neutron-to-proton ratio for stability?
- How can you predict if an isotope will be stable or unstable based on its position relative to the band of stability?
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Related terms
Neutron-to-Proton Ratio: The ratio of neutrons to protons in a nucleus; crucial for determining nuclear stability.
Radioactive Decay: The process by which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by emitting radiation.
Beta Decay: A type of radioactive decay involving the transformation of a neutron into a proton with the emission of an electron.
