Anti-neutron + Electron reaction?

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    Electron Reaction
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the hypothetical reaction between an anti-neutron and an electron, exploring the possible outcomes and underlying mechanisms. Participants consider various aspects of particle interactions, including Feynman diagrams and beta radiation, while addressing a question posed in a physics exam.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that the collision might result in some form of beta radiation, though they express uncertainty about the reasoning behind this.
  • Another participant proposes drawing a Feynman diagram to visualize the reaction, indicating that it could help clarify the process.
  • A different participant describes a potential reaction involving an electron and a proton leading to a neutron and an electron neutrino, suggesting a similar process could apply to the anti-neutron scenario.
  • There is a clarification that beta radiation specifically involves electrons or positrons, and the initial proposed reaction is identified as inverse beta decay.
  • One participant mentions that the most significant interaction in the case of an anti-neutron and an electron would be scattering due to electromagnetic interaction, referencing the magnetic moment of the anti-neutron.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the nature of the reaction and the relevance of beta radiation, indicating that multiple competing interpretations exist without a clear consensus.

Contextual Notes

Participants do not fully resolve the implications of the anti-proton's involvement in the proposed reactions, nor do they clarify the assumptions regarding the interactions described.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to students preparing for physics competitions, educators seeking examples of particle interactions, and enthusiasts exploring advanced topics in particle physics.

Gib Z
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Hey guys, I need help on this question that was in the Australian Physics Olympiad Entrance exam last week:

What would happen if an anti-neutron and an electron collided, and why?


I'm thinking some sort of beta radiation, but that's just a hunch and I don't know why.

Thanks!
 
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Have you tried to draw a Feynman diagram of this one?
 
Ahh good idea but I can't get anywhere from it :(
 
Just draw one for a allowed reaction, i.e :

e + P -> N + e-neutrino

Then crossing (change side and do antiparticle)

e + anti_N -> anti_P + e-neutrino

That should be right
 
Ahh :) In other terms, an electron and a proton form a Neutron and an electron neutrino, So an electron and an anti Neutrino make an anti proton and an electron neutrino? The electron neutrino tells me beta radiation, but does the anti proton affect that in any way?
 
Ahh I see. Thank you so much :)
 
No problem, now good luck! Cheers
 
Gib Z said:
Hey guys, I need help on this question that was in the Australian Physics Olympiad Entrance exam last week:

What would happen if an anti-neutron and an electron collided, and why?


I'm thinking some sort of beta radiation, but that's just a hunch and I don't know why.

Thanks!
The most important reaction would be scattering due to the EM interaction between the electron and the antli-neutron magnetic moment.
 

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