Beta (β) decay

Definition

Beta (β) decay is a type of radioactive decay in which a beta particle (electron or positron) is emitted from an atomic nucleus. This process changes the atomic number of the nucleus, effectively transforming one element into another.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In β- decay, a neutron is converted into a proton, an electron (beta particle), and an antineutrino.
2. In β+ decay, a proton is converted into a neutron, a positron (positive beta particle), and a neutrino.
3. The mass number of the atom remains constant during beta decay.
4. Beta particles are more penetrating than alpha particles but less so than gamma rays.
5. Beta decay occurs in isotopes where the neutron-to-proton ratio is either too high or too low for stability.

Review Questions

Related terms

Alpha (α) Decay: A type of radioactive decay where an atomic nucleus emits an alpha particle (2 protons and 2 neutrons), decreasing its atomic number by two and its mass number by four.

Gamma (γ) Decay: A type of radioactive decay where an excited nucleus releases energy by emitting a gamma photon without changing its composition of protons and neutrons.

Neutrino:

A nearly massless, electrically neutral subatomic particle that is produced in both beta-plus and beta-minus decays.