Beta decay ( -decay) is a type of radioactive decay in which an unstable atomic nucleus transforms into a different element by emitting a beta particle. This nuclear process is driven by the weak interaction (weak nuclear force). It allows an imbalanced nucleus to adjust its neutron-to-proton ratio to achieve a more stable configuration.
During beta decay, the total number of protons and neutrons (mass number, ) stays exactly the same, but the atomic number ( ) changes by one unit. The Three Types of Beta Decay 1. Beta-Minus Decay ( β−beta raised to the negative power
When it happens: Occurs in neutron-rich nuclei that have too many neutrons compared to protons.
The Process: A neutron inside the nucleus transforms into a proton. Ejected Particles: A high-energy electron (the β−beta raised to the negative power particle) and an electron antineutrino ( ν̄enu bar sub e ) are created and instantly ejected. Nuclear Shift: The atomic number increases by 1 ( Example: Carbon-14 decays into Nitrogen-14.
614C→ 714N+e−+ν̄e sub 6 to the 14th power C right arrow sub 7 to the 14th power N plus e raised to the negative power plus nu bar sub e 2. Beta-Plus Decay ( β+beta raised to the positive power / Positron Emission) DOE Explains…Beta Decay – Department of Energy
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