What happens to Fermions during Beta decay radiation?

In summary, during beta decay, fermions such as quarks and leptons can change flavors and an electron/positron can be created. This process occurs through interactions between particles and is described by quantum field theory. However, there is no deeper mechanism for this creation and it is simply a natural occurrence in nature as long as all conserved quantities are maintained.
  • #1
SirTerry
2
0
I recently started learning about quarks and leptons and was wondering what happens to the fermions (specifically the quarks and leptons) during a beta decay. How is the electron/positron created and what causes the up quarks and down quarks to change flavours?
If this is a bad question please feel free to ignore it I am just confused as to how it all would work.
Thank you:smile:
 
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  • #2
The particles are simply created or destroyed in interactions. There is no deeper mechanism for that. This applies to bosons as well.
 
  • #3
mfb said:
The particles are simply created or destroyed in interactions. There is no deeper mechanism for that. This applies to bosons as well.
But how is there suddenly an electron/positron?
 
  • #4
It is created.
Particles can be created just like that as long as all conserved quantities are conserved (like energy, momentum, lepton number and so on).

Quantum field theory describes it as interaction between fields but the basic idea is still the same: It just happens. You can keep asking "how" forever but you won't get a useful answer forever. It's just how nature is.
 

1. What is Beta decay radiation?

Beta decay radiation is a type of radioactive decay in which a nucleus emits an electron or a positron, along with a neutrino or antineutrino.

2. How do Fermions behave during Beta decay radiation?

Fermions, which are particles with half-integer spin, are the building blocks of matter and are involved in Beta decay radiation as they make up the particles that are emitted. They behave according to the laws of quantum mechanics, which govern the behavior of subatomic particles.

3. Do Fermions disappear during Beta decay radiation?

No, Fermions do not disappear during Beta decay radiation. They are transformed into other particles, such as electrons, neutrinos, and antineutrinos, as the nucleus undergoes decay.

4. How does Beta decay radiation affect the stability of an atom?

Beta decay radiation can change the number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus of an atom, which can alter its stability. This can lead to the formation of a different element or an isotope of the same element.

5. How does Beta decay radiation impact everyday life?

Beta decay radiation is used in various applications, such as medical imaging and cancer treatment. It also plays a role in the natural processes of radioactive decay, which can affect the environment and living organisms.

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