The Q value for a particular reaction is -2.4 MeV, and the reaction's threshold energy is 9.60 MeV. What is the ratio of the mass of the incident particle to the mass of the stationary target nucleus?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The threshold energy (Eth) is related to the Q value and the masses of the particles involved. For a reaction with a negative Q value, Eth = -Q * (1 + m1/m2), where m1 is the mass of the incident particle and m2 is the mass of the target nucleus. Solving for m1/m2 gives m1/m2 = Eth/(-Q) - 1 = 9.60/2.4 - 1 = 3.

The Q Value for a Particular Reaction Is -2