Balance atomic numbers in nuclear equations.

Balancing atomic numbers in nuclear equations is essential for ensuring the conservation of charge during nuclear reactions. Each nuclear reaction involves the transformation of one element into another, where the sum of the atomic numbers (the number of protons) before the reaction must equal the sum after the reaction. For example, in alpha decay, the atomic number decreases by two, while in beta decay, it increases by one. By accurately balancing atomic numbers, we can verify the correctness of nuclear equations and understand the changes occurring within the nucleus during radioactive decay.