Beta Particles vs. Electrons: Comparing Properties

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

Beta particles and electrons are fundamentally the same entity; beta particles are simply the historical term used when radioactivity was first discovered. As research progressed, it was established that beta rays consist primarily of electrons, with positrons being a rare exception. This clarification highlights the evolution of terminology in particle physics and the understanding of subatomic particles.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of particle physics
  • Familiarity with the concept of radioactivity
  • Knowledge of subatomic particles, specifically electrons and positrons
  • Awareness of historical developments in physics terminology
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the historical context of radioactivity and its discovery
  • Explore the properties of electrons and positrons in detail
  • Study the implications of beta decay in nuclear physics
  • Learn about the role of beta particles in modern physics experiments
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, particularly those interested in nuclear physics and the historical development of particle terminology.

vishnu1692
Messages
1
Reaction score
0
what is the difference between a beta particle and an electron in terms of its behaviour and physical properties like mass etc..?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
There is no difference, it is the same object. A betha-particle is the original name coined when radioactivity was discovered. Later on it was demonstrated that the betha-rays are just electrons (or rarely positrons).
 

Similar threads

Undergrad From what locations do radiated electrons start their movement in Beta decay?
  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
2K
Graduate Beta Decay, why did they have to resort to Neutrinos?
  • · Replies 32 ·
2
Replies
32
Views
4K
High School Beta Plus Decay: What's Left for the Electron?
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
Undergrad How Does Beta Decay Relate to the Role of W Bosons in Weak Nuclear Force?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K
Undergrad Energy reduction/deflection of beta particles due to isotope geometry
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Undergrad Decay constant of Different Elements and Isotopes?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Undergrad Can proton/neutron decay be avoided in some conditions?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
4K
Graduate "Reversal" of Nuclear Decay in Beta Emitters
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Undergrad Understanding crossing symmetry: inverse beta decay
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Undergrad Can Beta Decay Occur to a Ground State in Nuclear Physics?
  • · Replies 23 ·
Replies
23
Views
4K