Beta Decay

Introduction

• Beta decay is a fundamental nuclear process that reveals how certain types of atoms undergo transformation by changing the number of protons and neutrons in their nuclei.
• It is an essential concept in the study of nuclear physics and particle physics.

Types of Beta Decay

Beta-Minus (β⁻) Decay:

• In beta-minus decay, a neutron in the nucleus is transformed into a proton, an electron (beta-minus particle), and an antineutrino.
• This process increases the atomic number of the nucleus by one while keeping the mass number constant.
• Equation: n → p + e⁻ + v̄e

Beta-Plus (β⁺) Decay:

• In beta-plus decay, a proton in the nucleus is transformed into a neutron, a positron (beta-plus particle), and a neutrino.
• This process decreases the atomic number of the nucleus by one while maintaining the mass number.
• Equation: p → n + e⁺ + ve

Key Components

• Neutron: A subatomic particle found in the nucleus of an atom with no electric charge.
• Proton: A positively charged subatomic particle in the nucleus.
• Electron (β⁻ particle): A negatively charged subatomic particle that orbits the nucleus.
• Positron (β⁺ particle): A positively charged counterpart of the electron.
• Antineutrino (v̄e): A nearly massless, electrically neutral particle that is difficult to detect.
• Neutrino (ve): A nearly massless, electrically neutral particle with extremely low interaction with matter.

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Beta Decay

Significance of Beta Decay

• Beta decay plays a crucial role in determining the stability and composition of atomic nuclei.
• It is responsible for elements' natural transformation, such as the conversion of carbon-14 to nitrogen-14 in radiocarbon dating.