Electron capture in fully ionised nuclei

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the decay process of fully ionized isotopes, specifically 7Be4+. It concludes that when an isotope like 7Be4+ has no electrons available for electron capture (EC), it cannot undergo this decay process. As a result, 7Be4+ becomes stable due to the energetic blockage of positron emission. The conversation highlights that while lighter isotopes may stabilize, heavier nuclei typically have the positron emission channel available, allowing for decay.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of nuclear decay processes, specifically electron capture (EC)
  • Familiarity with isotopes and their stability
  • Knowledge of positron emission and its energetic conditions
  • Basic concepts of ionization and fully ionized nuclei
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mechanisms of electron capture in various isotopes
  • Explore the stability of fully ionized isotopes in nuclear physics
  • Study the conditions under which positron emission occurs in heavier nuclei
  • Investigate the implications of nuclear stability on radioactive decay pathways
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This discussion is beneficial for nuclear physicists, researchers in radioactive decay, and students studying nuclear chemistry and particle physics.

Garlic
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Hello everyone,
What happens if an isotope that normally decays through EC has no electrons at all? For example how does 7Be4+ decay?
 
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If beta+ decay is not possible and there are no electrons around, the isotope becomes stable.
 
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Positron emission is energetically blocked for Be-7, so it becomes stable.

Most heavier nuclei will have the positron emission channel open up.
 

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