What nuclear reaction occurs in 18O when bombarded with protons?

When 18O is bombarded with protons, the nuclear reaction that occurs is 18O (p,n) 18F. In this process, a proton is absorbed by the 18O nucleus, resulting in the transformation of an oxygen-18 nucleus into a fluorine-18 nucleus while releasing a neutron. This reaction is significant in neutron-rich environments where protons are available, especially in nuclear physics and the production of certain isotopes for applications in medical imaging, such as PET scans.

The transformation from oxygen to fluorine in this reaction illustrates the principle of nuclear transmutation, where the composition of nucleons changes through particle bombardment, yielding different elements or isotopes. In the case of fluorine-18, it becomes relevant due to its utility in PET imaging, as it is a commonly used radionuclide.

This reaction is indicative of the types of processes that occur in nuclear reactions involving light elements. It is essential to recognize that this specific reaction emphasizes the role of protons in nuclear transformation and how these processes can lead to the generation of useful isotopes in the field of medical imaging.