Phosphorus -32 (P-32) can decay by emitting beta particles.
(a) What is a beta particle?
A high-energy, high-speed electron or positron emitted from an atom's nucleus during beta decay.
(b) If the proton number of phosphorus -32 is 15:
i) State the new values of proton and mass number of the nuclide just after it emits a beta particle.
ii) Write the decay equation for P-32 after emitting two beta particles.
(c) Phosphorus -32 can be used to prove that plants absorb phosphorus nutrients from the soil around them. State one safety precaution which should be taken into consideration when doing experiments with phosphorus -32.
Answer (1)
Phosphorus-32 ( P-32 ) is a radioactive isotope that can decay through the emission of β (beta) particles.
(a) What is a beta particle? A beta particle is a high-energy, high-speed electron or positron that is emitted from an atom's nucleus during beta decay. Specifically, in the case of P-32, the beta particle is an electron.
(b) If the proton number of phosphorus-32 is 15:
i) State the new values of proton and mass number of the nuclide just after it emits a beta particle:
When P-32 emits a beta particle, a neutron in the nucleus is converted into a proton. Thus, the atomic number (proton number) increases by 1, while the mass number remains unchanged.
Therefore, the new proton number is 16, and the mass number remains 32.
ii) Write the decay equation for P-32 after emitting two beta particles:
First beta decay: 15 32 P → 16 32 S + beta particle
Second beta decay: 16 32 S → 17 32 Cl + beta particle
Overall equation: 15 32 P → 17 32 Cl + 2 beta particles
(c) Phosphorus-32 can be used to prove that plants absorb phosphorus nutrients from the soil around them. State one safety precaution which should be taken into consideration when doing experiments with phosphorus-32.
When conducting experiments with radioactive materials like P-32, it is crucial to take safety precautions to minimize exposure to radiation. One such precaution is to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). This includes wearing lab coats, gloves, and safety goggles. It's also important to use shielding materials and work in designated areas to prevent unnecessary exposure to radiation.
