Can Proton-Electron Fusion Create a Neutron?

Relena
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Is this reaction possible , i mean bombarding a 1H target with an electron to form a neutron

that's all what i want to know
 
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Not exactly. The reaction e + p \rightarrow n + \nu can occur, but you need the outgoing neutrino. This would be called scattering and not fusion.
 
Google 'inverse beta decay' and you'll find your answer. :smile:
 
OK

the reaction it self to be defined as fusion or electron capture that's the point
I've read on wikipedia
If the energy difference between the parent atom and the daughter atom is less than 1.022 MeV, positron emission is forbidden and electron capture is the sole decay mode.

so the reaction p + e− → n + νe needs additonal energy to occur

i .e the mass of electron and proton still needs about 782.33 KeV to yield a neutron and an electron antineutrino

so the reaction can never generate energy as it is endothermic

but can the energy of electron be used , i mean an electron of around 800 KeV hitting a proton would this yield a neutron?

thanks alot
 
Relena said:
so the reaction can never generate energy as it is endothermic

but can the energy of electron be used , i mean an electron of around 800 KeV hitting a proton would this yield a neutron?

The reaction can take place, if that is what you are asking.
 
malawi_glenn said:
The reaction can take place, if that is what you are asking.

Ok but what's the mechanism?
 
Relena said:
Ok but what's the mechanism?

weak interaction, you got the hint "google 'inverse beta decay'"
 
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