Question

what is the missing particle?

133 54 xe* → 133 54 xe + ?

0 -1 e

0 0 γ

1 0 γ

Explanation:

Step1: Analyze mass number

In nuclear reactions, the mass number is conserved. The mass number of \(^{133}_{54}\text{Xe}^*\) is \(133\), and the mass number of \(^{133}_{54}\text{Xe}\) is also \(133\). So the mass number of the missing particle is \(133 - 133=0\).

Step2: Analyze atomic number

The atomic number is also conserved. The atomic number of \(^{133}_{54}\text{Xe}^*\) is \(54\), and the atomic number of \(^{133}_{54}\text{Xe}\) is \(54\). So the atomic number of the missing particle is \(54 - 54 = 0\).

Step3: Identify the particle

A particle with mass number \(0\) and atomic number \(0\) is a gamma ray (\(\gamma\)). The symbol for a gamma ray is \(^{\ 0}_{0}\gamma\).

Answer:

\(^{\ 0}_{0}\gamma\) (the second option in the given choices)