Question

\[\ce{^24_11Na}\] emits a nuclear radiation which does not alter the mass number but is deflected by a magnetic field.

1. Name the type of nuclear radiation emitted by \[\ce{^24_11Na}\].
2. Write the equation for this radioactive decay.

Answer 1

1. Beta (β) radiation is the type of radiation that does not alter the mass number and is deflected by a magnetic field. Therefore, beta (β) radiation is released by \[\ce{^24_11Na}\].
2. Radioactive decay equation:
   \[\ce{^24_11Na -> ^24_12Na + ^0_{-1}\beta}\]
   In this decay, a beta particle (electron) is emitted, the atomic number increases by 1, while the mass number remains unchanged.