Beta Emission and Atom Deflection

In summary, after beta-emission by a neutral atom, the linear momentums of the beta(-) particle and resulting atom are affected by an extra force. The instructor ruled out the possibility of an external electric field, but the speaker suggests that the negatively charged beta particle may still be deflected by the electric field lines. Additionally, in beta decay, a neutrino is emitted and its momentum must be calculated from the imbalance in the momenta of the other particles.
  • #1
bravoghost
7
0
I'm dealing with this problem for an MCAT review:
Following beta-emission by a neutral atom at rest, the respective linear momentums of the beta(-) particle and the resulting atom are shown below. (see attachment for message)
It wasn't too difficult to see that an extra force is in play, and gives the odd momentums of the beta(-) particle and the atom.
From the provided answers, the instructor immediately ruled out that an external electric field might be present. I thought this could be possible, however. If the resulting atom is neutral, then it could travel without its path being changed by the electric field. The negatively charged beta particle might be deflected, though - and could change its path upward as it is repulsed by the electric field lines.
If I'm wrong, I'm guessing the key word here is "linear" - since a negatively charged particle would curve as it accelerates through an electric field.
 

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  • #2
In beta decay, a neutrino is also emitted in addition to the electron. Since a neutrino is uncharged, you can't see it, and must calculate its momentum from the imbalance in the momenta of the other particles.
 

1. What is beta emission?

Beta emission is a type of radioactive decay where an unstable atom releases a beta particle, which is a high-energy electron or positron, in order to become more stable.

2. How does beta emission occur?

Beta emission occurs when an atom has an excess of either protons or neutrons in its nucleus. To reach a more stable state, the atom will either convert a neutron into a proton and emit an electron (beta-minus decay), or convert a proton into a neutron and emit a positron (beta-plus decay).

3. What is the effect of beta emission on the atom's mass and atomic number?

Beta emission does not change the mass number of an atom, as the beta particle has a very small mass. However, it does change the atomic number of the atom, as the number of protons or neutrons in the nucleus is altered.

4. How does beta emission affect the stability of an atom?

Beta emission can increase the stability of an atom as it reduces the excess of protons or neutrons in the nucleus. However, if an atom undergoes multiple beta emissions, it may eventually become too unstable and undergo other forms of radioactive decay.

5. How is atom deflection related to beta emission?

Atom deflection is the process of changing the direction of an atom's path using electric or magnetic fields. Beta particles, being charged, can be deflected by these fields, allowing scientists to study and measure the properties of beta emission.

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