Stability of a nucleus
Not all nuclei are stable
line of stability: relates the number
heavier nuclei has more neutrons than protons
- explanation: electrostatic interaction between
protons (long range forces)
- quantum mechanical energy diagrams with or without electrostatic force between the nucleons
filling up the available energy levels respecting the minimal energy principle and Pauli’s exclusion principle
if the nucleus is above the line of stability: extra neutrons
(n-->p+e; decays through ? radiation)
if the nucleus is below the stability line: extra protons
(? or ?+ decay or electron capture)