Exam-style question
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In a nuclear reaction, a proton (charge +1) and a neutron (charge 0) collide and produce a particle with charge +2 and another with charge -1. Is this interaction allowed based on conservation of charge? Explain your reasoning.
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- No, it is not allowed.
Explanation
Why this works
This question assesses the ability to apply conservation laws to particle interactions. The initial total charge is +1 (from the proton).
The final total charge is +2 + (-1) = +1, which is conserved. However, if the interaction produced a particle with charge +2 and another with charge -1, it would not violate charge conservation, thus the interaction is allowed.
Common mistake
No common mistake is linked to this question yet.