Find the speed of the alpha particle after the reaction

[student34]

Homework Statement

For the nuclear reaction, 1 neutron (1/0n) + 10/5B → 7/3L + 4/2He (alpha particle) assume that the initial kinetic energy and momentum of the reacting particles are negligible. Calculate the speed of the alpha particle immediately after it leaves the reaction.

Homework Equations

E = mrestc^2

Ek = (mtotal (before) - mtotal (after))c^2

The Attempt at a Solution

I really have no idea because there is no change in mass that I can see, and that is all I had to look for with questions similar to these in this chapter.

 

[Simon Bridge]

##\renewcommand{\e}[1]{\text{#1}} \e n_0^1 + \e B_5^{10} \to \e{Li}_3^7 + \e{He}_2^4##

I really have no idea because there is no change in mass that I can see, and that is all I had to look for with questions similar to these in this chapter.

Did you look up the masses or just go by the number of nucleons?

 

[student34]

##\renewcommand{\e}[1]{\text{#1}} \e n_0^1 + \e B_5^{10} \to \e{Li}_3^7 + \e{He}_2^4##


Did you look up the masses or just go by the number of nucleons?

I only used the number of protons and neutrons. I can't think of any other reason why they would have a different mass.

 

[cpscdave]

I only used the number of protons and neutrons. I can't think of any other reason why they would have a different mass.

I'd check the masses out then :)

 

[Simon Bridge]

Yep - go look up the masses :)
Write back with a list.

Consider: where does the "binding energy" of a nucleus come from?