The nucleus 10Ne23 decays by β- emission. Write down the  β-decay equation and determine the maximum kinetic energy of the electrons emitted.

Q: The nucleus ₁₀Ne²³ decays by β^– emission. Write down the  β-decay equation and determine the maximum kinetic energy of the electrons emitted.

Given that : m (₁₀Ne²³) = 22.994466 u; m(₁₁Na²³) = 22.989770 u

Sol: ₁₀Ne²³  → ₁₁Na²³ + e^– + v^– + Q

For β^– decay, Q = [m (₁₀Ne²³) – m(₁₁Na²³)]c²

= [22.99466 – 22.989770] 931.5 MeV

= 0.004696 x 931.5 = 4.37 MeV.