Identify X in the reaction below. 238U + 12C → 244Cf + X

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In the given nuclear reaction, uranium (U) and carbon (C) combine to form californium (Cf). The missing product, X, must balance the equation in terms of both mass and atomic numbers. An alpha particle (2 protons and 2 neutrons) is not missing since the atomic numbers and mass numbers on both sides would not balance with its inclusion. Electrons and protons are not involved in the balancing of nuclear reactions in terms of mass number. The correct answer is 6 neutrons, as they balance the mass number without altering the atomic number, maintaining the conservation of mass and charge in the reaction.

Identify X in the Reaction Below