Understanding the Components:
* Alpha particle (α): This is a helium nucleus, containing 2 protons and 2 neutrons. It has a mass number of 4 (2 protons + 2 neutrons) and a charge of +2.
* Neon-20 (²⁰Ne): This isotope of neon has 10 protons and 10 neutrons, giving it a mass number of 20.
Fusion Reaction:
The fusion reaction can be represented as:
²⁰Ne + α → ?
Balancing the Equation:
1. Mass Number: The total mass number on both sides of the equation must be equal. On the left side, we have 20 (Ne) + 4 (α) = 24. The product nucleus must have a mass number of 24.
2. Atomic Number: The total atomic number (number of protons) must be equal on both sides. On the left side, we have 10 (Ne) + 2 (α) = 12. The product nucleus must have an atomic number of 12.
The Product Nucleus:
An element with 12 protons is magnesium (Mg). Therefore, the product nucleus is magnesium-24 (²⁴Mg).
The Complete Reaction:
²⁰Ne + α → ²⁴Mg
