Beta Decay of Cobalt-60

60Co → 60Ni + e− + ν̄e + γ

Overview

Cobalt-60 beta decays to nickel-60 with emission of two gamma rays (1.17 and 1.33 MeV) and an electron. The 5.27-year half-life makes it ideal for industrial and medical radiation sources. Co-60 is produced by neutron irradiation of stable Co-59 in nuclear reactors.

Participants

Role Substance Coefficient State
Reactant Cobalt Co 1 (s)
Product Nickel Ni 1 (s)

Everyday Example

Cobalt-60 gamma rays are used to sterilize medical equipment and irradiate food to kill bacteria, extending shelf life.

Industrial Importance

Co-60 is used in radiation therapy for cancer, industrial radiography for weld inspection, food irradiation, and sterilization of medical supplies.

Properties

Type
Nuclear
Reversible
No
Energy
Exothermic
ΔH
-256000000.0 kJ/mol

Related Reactions

Alpha Decay of Polonium-210 Alpha Decay of Radium-226 Alpha Decay of Radon-222 Alpha Decay of Thorium-232 Alpha Decay of Uranium-238 Americium-241 Alpha Decay Beta Decay of Carbon-14 Beta Decay of Cesium-137 Beta Decay of Iodine-131 Beta Decay of Potassium-40

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Beta Decay of Cobalt-60?
The balanced equation is: ⁶⁰Co → ⁶⁰Ni + e⁻ + ν̄ₑ + γ.
What type of reaction is Beta Decay of Cobalt-60?
Beta Decay of Cobalt-60 is a nuclear reaction.
Is Beta Decay of Cobalt-60 exothermic or endothermic?
Beta Decay of Cobalt-60 is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -256000000.0 kJ/mol.