Phosphorus-32, a radioactive isotope of phosphorus-31 (atomic number 15), undergoes a form of radioactive decay whereby a neutron turns into a proton and emits radiation in the form of an electron. What is the product of such radioactive decay of phosphorus-32?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In this form of radioactive decay, a neutron turns into a proton, increasing the atomic number of the nucleus by one while keeping the mass number constant. Therefore, the product of the decay of phosphorus-32 (atomic number 15) is an atom with atomic number 16, which is sulphur-32.

Phosphorus-32, a Radioactive Isotope of Phosphorus-31 (Atomic Number 15), Undergoes