Question

Which is the most likely mode of decay for each of the following?

(a) 111 Ag 47 alpha decay beta decay electron capture positron decay
(b) 41 CI 17 alpha decay beta decay electron capture positron decay
(c) 110 Ru 44 alpha decay beta decay electron capture positron decay

Answer 1

The modes of decay for the elements are electron capture for Silver-111, and beta decay for both Chlorine-41 and Ruthenium-110, based on their neutron-proton ratios and position relative to the band of stability.

Step-by-step explanation:

Regarding the mode of decay for the given elements:

• (a) 111Ag47: Silver-111 is most likely to undergo electron capture as it has a neutron-proton (n:p) ratio that is slightly higher than the stable range for its number of protons.
• (b) 41Cl17: Chlorine-41 is more likely to decay by beta decay. It has an excess of neutrons, thus a beta particle emission can convert a neutron into a proton, moving it closer to the band of stability.
• (c) 110Ru44: Ruthenium-110 would most likely decay by beta decay since it has more neutrons than protons, and emitting a beta particle would help balance the n:p ratio.

These predictions are based on where the isotopes fall in relation to the band of stability: isotopes above the band tend to decay by beta emission, while those below tend to undergo positron emission or electron capture.