Electron Proton Collisions and Electron Capture

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the distinction between electron capture and electron-proton collisions. Electron capture involves a proton decaying into a neutron by emitting a W+ boson, which is absorbed by an electron, resulting in the emission of a neutrino. In contrast, electron-proton collisions feature an electron decaying into a neutrino while emitting a W- boson, which is absorbed by a proton, leading to its decay into a neutron. Both processes can be described using up and down quarks, highlighting their fundamental differences in context and occurrence.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Feynman diagrams
  • Knowledge of particle physics terminology, including W bosons and neutrinos
  • Familiarity with atomic structure and nuclear processes
  • Basic grasp of quark composition in protons and neutrons
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the role of W bosons in weak interactions
  • Explore the implications of electron capture in nuclear decay processes
  • Investigate the differences between weak and strong nuclear forces
  • Learn about the applications of electron-proton collisions in particle accelerators
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, particularly those interested in particle physics and nuclear reactions, as well as educators seeking to explain the nuances of electron interactions in atomic structures.

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What is the difference between electron capture, and electron-proton collions?

My textbook has the feynman diagram of electron capture as a proton decaying into a neutron, and the proton emmiting a W+ boson, which is received by an electron, which then decays into a neutrino.

However, the electron proton collision has an electron decaying into a neutrino and the electron emitting a W- boson, which the proton recieves, which decays into a neutron.

Obviously, rather than proton and neutron, up and down quarks can be used in the above.

Why is there this difference in the two processes?

Thanks
 
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That's a helluva intro physics class, eh? :)

Seeing as how I hate particle physics, my answer is probably a bit biased, but I would assume the reason is because IT'S ALL A BUNCH OF BS >_>

seriously though, I know electron capture is an event that takes place in the nuclei of atoms, so I would wager the electron-proton collision is a similar event that takes place outside the nucleus. Assuming there IS a difference besides the very fundamental one you described
 

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