Boron is used in both nuclear technology and in the manufacture of strong permanent…
CHEMISTRY · Multi-part · AP · Chemistry · Atomic Structure and Properties · Atomic Structure and Properties
Problem
Boron is used in both nuclear technology and in the manufacture of strong permanent magnets. Two samples of elemental boron were examined by mass spectrometry.
• Sample C displayed only two peaks at m⁄z 10 and m⁄z 11 with relative intensities 19.9 and 80.1, respectively.
• Sample D displayed peaks at the same m⁄z values but with relative intensities 5.0 and 95.0, respectively.
(Natural boron contains 19.9 % 10B and 80.1 % 11B.)
(a) Compare the isotopic compositions of Samples C and D to that of naturally occurring boron. State whether each sample is enriched or depleted in 10B.
(b) Describe one industrial or technological application that would benefit from a boron sample having the isotopic composition observed for Sample D and explain why the altered composition is advantageous for that application.
(c) Discuss how the change in isotopic composition for Sample D would, if at all, affect the chemical reactivity of elemental boron. Provide reasoning for your answer.