Can antimatter(positron) can be converted into a matter(electron)

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SUMMARY

The discussion confirms that antimatter, specifically positrons, cannot be converted into matter, such as electrons, as this would violate the conservation of lepton number. Instead, when a positron is involved in reactions, it results in the simultaneous disappearance of an electron, maintaining the balance of leptons and anti-leptons. Additionally, the decay processes of muons are highlighted, where negative muons decay into electrons and neutrinos, while positive muons decay into positrons and neutrinos. The creation of anti-protons at Fermilab is also noted, emphasizing the equal production of protons or neutrons in such processes.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of lepton conservation laws
  • Familiarity with particle decay processes
  • Knowledge of antimatter and matter interactions
  • Basic grasp of Fermilab's particle physics experiments
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of lepton number conservation in particle physics
  • Explore the decay mechanisms of muons and their implications
  • Investigate Fermilab's experiments on anti-proton production
  • Learn about the properties and interactions of neutrinos in particle physics
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physicists, students of particle physics, and anyone interested in the fundamental principles of matter and antimatter interactions.

joychandra
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Can antimatter(positron) can be converted into a matter(electron) . If yes what other particles are created in that reaction
 
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For leptons (muons, electrons, etc.), the sum of the number of leptons plus the number of anti-leptons is a constant. So if a positron disappears, an electron will have to disappear also. So there is no "conversion". A negative muon can decay into an electron plus neutrinos. A positive (anti-) muon can decay into a positron plus neutrinos. When Fermilab creates say 10^12 anti-protons, there are 10^12 protons or neutrons also created. If you want to check on the number of anti-protons in the Tevatron right now, look at
http://www-bd.fnal.gov/notifyservlet/www?project=outside
 

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