A nitrogen nucleus bombarded with an alpha particle produces an oxygen nucleus and a proton. The nuclear reaction for this process is \(^4_2H + ^{14}_2N \to ^{17}_{8}O + ^1_1H + Q\). Which of the following statements about the reaction is not correct?
A
the bombardment results into a nucleus with greater proton number
B
it is an induced nuclear reaction
C
it is a natural radioactive decay
D
the sum of the final nucleon numbers
Verified Correct Answer: C.
Physical Principles & Numerical Solution
The reaction is not a natural radioactive decay. Natural decay occurs spontaneously without external influence; this reaction requires an external alpha particle to initiate it.
Source: WAEC / JAMB / NECO Classroom Archive (Record #33948)