Which of the following statements correctly describes how nuclear equations must be balanced?
Option A
Incorrect: The number of atoms must be the same on both sides of the equation, just like in chemical reactions.
Option B
The total mass number and total atomic number must each be equal on both sides of the equation.
Correct answer
Option C
The number of neutrons must always equal the number of protons in a balanced nuclear equation.
Option D
The total mass number must be equal on both sides, but the atomic number can change.
Option E
The total atomic number must be equal on both sides, but the mass number can change.
Option A
Incorrect: The number of atoms must be the same on both sides of the equation, just like in chemical reactions.
Option B
The total mass number and total atomic number must each be equal on both sides of the equation.
Correct answer
Option C
The number of neutrons must always equal the number of protons in a balanced nuclear equation.
Option D
The total mass number must be equal on both sides, but the atomic number can change.
Option E
The total atomic number must be equal on both sides, but the mass number can change.