Question

For a nucleus to be stable, the correct relation between neutron number N and Proton number Z is.

• A. $N > Z$
• B. $N = Z$
• C. $N < Z$
• D. $N \geq Z$

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

$N \geq Z$

Answer 2

For stability in case of lighter nuclei $\frac{N}{Z} = 1$ and for heavier nuclei $\frac{N}{Z} > 1$.