Final answer:
The complete β⁻ decay equation for 90Sr, a major waste product of nuclear reactors, is 90Sr → 90Y + e⁻ + νe. The energy released in the decay can be determined using the mass-energy equivalence equation, E = mc².
Step-by-step explanation:
The complete β⁻ decay equation for 90Sr, a major waste product of nuclear reactors, can be written as:
90Sr → 90Y + e⁻ + νe
In this equation, 90Sr undergoes β⁻ decay, which means it emits a β⁻ particle (an electron) and an electron antineutrino (νe). The daughter isotope formed is 90Y.
The energy released in the decay can be determined using the mass-energy equivalence equation, E = mc². You will need the mass difference between the parent and daughter isotopes, which can be obtained from a periodic table or nuclear data table.