Question: The naturally occurring radioactive isotope 232 Th does not make good fission fuel, because it has an even number of neutrons; however, it can be

The naturally occurring radioactive isotope 232Th does not make good fission fuel, because it has an even number of neutrons; however, it can be bred into a suitable fuel (much as 238U is bred into 239P).

(a) What are Z and N for 232Th? 

(b) Write the reaction equation for neutron captured by 232Th and identify the nuclide AX produced inn+232 Th  AX+Y.

(c) The product nucleus β- decays, as does its daughter. Write the decay equations for each, and identify the final nucleus. 

(d) Confirm that the final nucleus has an odd number of neutrons, making it a better fission fuel. 

(e) Look up the half-life of the final nucleus to see if it lives long enough to be a useful fuel.

n+232 Th AX+Y.

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a What are Z and N for 232Th Z 90 atomic number of thorium N 142 number of neutrons in 232Th b Write ... View full answer

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