- #1
EternusVia
- 93
- 10
Hello all,
In chemistry class we recently began the subject of nuclear chemistry. I'm sure you all know that nuclear chemistry unleashes a swarm of new particles. My teacher mentioned the Positron, a particle few of my classmates recognized. To help us understand its nature we were told to think of it is a positive electron.
Why has it taken a whole year of Chemistry class to learn about the electron's brother? Why don't positrons affect chemical reactions at all? Are they simply less frequently seen than electrons?
Furthermore, what IS a positron? I've heard of physicists describing it as an electron going backwards in time... which is completely befuddling.
Any insight would be appreciated.
In chemistry class we recently began the subject of nuclear chemistry. I'm sure you all know that nuclear chemistry unleashes a swarm of new particles. My teacher mentioned the Positron, a particle few of my classmates recognized. To help us understand its nature we were told to think of it is a positive electron.
Why has it taken a whole year of Chemistry class to learn about the electron's brother? Why don't positrons affect chemical reactions at all? Are they simply less frequently seen than electrons?
Furthermore, what IS a positron? I've heard of physicists describing it as an electron going backwards in time... which is completely befuddling.
Any insight would be appreciated.