Conservation of momentum and nuclear decay (Gr 12 Physics)

In summary, a stationary nucleus undergoing radioactive decay was observed to emit a beta particle and a neutrino, and the question arose about the recoil velocity of the remaining nucleus. If the measured recoil velocity differs significantly from the calculated velocity, a nuclear physicist may conclude that either another undetected particle was involved in the decay or that there was an error in the calculation. Another possibility is that the Mössbauer effect occurred, but this is unlikely in the case of beta decay.
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krbs
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Homework Statement


A stationary nucleus undergoes radioactive decay. A beta particle and a neutrino are detected leaving the nucleus. What is the recoil velocity of the remaining nucleus? If the recoil velocity measured is significantly different from the calculated velocity, what conclusion might a nuclear physicist reach about the decay?

I've solved the first part of the question. As for the second part, it's been a long time since I took chemistry and there are no relevant examples in my textbook.

Homework Equations


N/A

The Attempt at a Solution



My guess is that there was another particle involved in the decay that was not detected.

I realize I'm expected to figure stuff out on my own so it'd be great if someone could at least suggest what I should research. My Google searches haven't been very helpful.
 
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krbs said:
My guess is that there was another particle involved in the decay that was not detected.
Right. Or the physicist got the calculation wrong. Or something similar to the Mössbauer effect happened, but that is unlikely for beta decay.

If the neutrino is not detected, there is also a more interesting other option.
 
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FAQ: Conservation of momentum and nuclear decay (Gr 12 Physics)

What is conservation of momentum?

Conservation of momentum is a fundamental law in physics that states that the total momentum of a system remains constant in the absence of external forces. This means that the momentum of objects before and after a collision or interaction will be the same.

How does conservation of momentum apply to nuclear decay?

In nuclear decay, the parent nucleus breaks down into smaller particles, releasing energy in the process. The total momentum of the parent nucleus is equal to the total momentum of the daughter particles. This is because momentum is always conserved, even in nuclear reactions.

What is the relationship between mass and momentum?

According to the momentum-velocity equation, momentum is equal to an object's mass multiplied by its velocity. This means that an object with a greater mass will have a greater momentum, assuming the same velocity.

How does the law of conservation of momentum affect collisions?

In collisions, the law of conservation of momentum dictates that the total momentum of the objects before and after the collision must be equal. This can be used to calculate the velocities of objects after a collision, as long as the mass and initial velocities are known.

Can the law of conservation of momentum be violated?

No, the law of conservation of momentum is a fundamental law of physics and has been observed to hold true in all physical interactions. If it appears to be violated, it is likely due to an incomplete understanding of the system or external forces that were not accounted for.

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