Nuclear Stability
Relative Stability of Different Nuclei
Two Methods
• Which isotopes? • Binding Energy
What holds an atom together?Forces of Nature and Atomic Structure:
Band (Island) of Stability
N/Z ratio
Number of stable isotopes
Isotope trends among the elements:
Binding Energy, but first…Comparing stability:
O-O single bond strength = 146 kJ/mol
O=O double bond strength = 496 kJ/mol
Which is more stable, O2 or O3?O2: O=O
O3: O=O-O
Predict what you think the trend will be:
As atomic number increases, what will happen to stability?
Split up class and do:
Do all isotopes using Excel
Isotopedata_stable.xls
Modes of Radioactive Decay
U-238 Decay Series And … the problem with radon.
Decay modes andthe island of stability.