Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Electron capture is a nuclear reaction in which an inner atomic electron combines with a proton in the nucleus, resulting in the conversion of a proton into a neutron.
Related terms
Beta Plus Decay: Beta plus decay, also known as positron emission, occurs when a proton in the nucleus converts into a neutron while emitting a positron.
Radioactive Isotope: A radioactive isotope is an unstable form of an element that undergoes radioactive decay over time.
Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA): Neutron activation analysis is an analytical technique used to determine trace elements by bombarding samples with neutrons and measuring resulting radiation emissions.