131_I_53 is an artificially made radioactive isotope of iodine, produced during the operation of nuclear power plants and the detonation of nuclear bombs. Exposure to high concentrations of 131 53I represents a serious risk for human health. However, small doses of this radioactive isotope are put to good use in medical studies. 131I_53 is widely used in treating thyroid cancer and in diagnosis of abnormal liver and kidney function. Required:
a. What is emitted when the radioactive nucleus of 131_I_53 decays to form the stable isotope of xenon 131 54Xe?
b. What is the energy Q released when 131_I_53 decays and 131_Xe_54 is formed? The atomic mass of 131_I_53 is 130.906118 u and the atomic mass of 131 54Xe is 130.90508 u.