Identify the element X in the following nuclear reactions: (a) H+Be → X + n; (Hint: See Appendix E.)

Boron

Explanation:

(a)

H means hydrogen

The atomic mass of hydrogen is 1 and the mass number is 2.

Be means beryllium

The atomic number is 4 and the mass number is 9.

n mean neutron, atomic number is 0 and mass number 1.

By conserving the charge,

the atomic number of X = 1 + 4 - 0 = 5

the mass of X = 2 + 9 - 1 = 10

The element having atomic number 5 and mass number 10 is Boron (B).