Explaination of beta + decay in layman language

In summary, beta + decay involves the transformation of a proton into a neutron, resulting in a decrease in atomic number by 1. This is possible due to the conversion of mass into energy according to Einstein's famous equation, and it only occurs within unstable nuclei.
  • #1
Suyash Singh
QUESTION:
I read in book that in beta + decay proton decays to neutron

But i can't understand how it is possible if proton mass is less than neutron mass.I read on net but it says 'quarks' and 'd u p' things which i don't study about currently.

Also why it only happen inside nucleus?What does nucleus do?
EQUATION:
proton>neutron + positron + neutrino
ATTEMPT AT SOLUTION:
I know that beta + will make atomic number decrease by 1.
I know binding energy is from mass defect.
 
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  • #2
Remember Einstein's famous ##E=mc^2##: mass is a form of energy, so when you say that the proton mass is less than the neutron mass you're really saying that you have to add energy to turn a proton into a neutron. Thus, an isolated proton cannot decay into a neutron, just as you're expecting. But some unstable nuclei may end up with less mass/energy if one of their protons decays into a neutron, and these are ones that will undergo beta+ decay. The total energy of the nucleus is reduced by an amount sufficient to allow the proton to neutron transition.
 
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1. What is beta + decay?

Beta + decay is a type of radioactive decay in which a proton within an unstable atomic nucleus transforms into a neutron, releasing a positron and a neutrino in the process. This results in a decrease in the atomic number of the nucleus, but no change in the mass number.

2. How does beta + decay occur?

In beta + decay, a proton in the nucleus is converted into a neutron, and a positron and neutrino are emitted. This is possible because within the nucleus, there are more protons than neutrons, making the atom unstable. By converting a proton into a neutron, the atom becomes more stable.

3. What is the difference between beta + decay and beta - decay?

In beta + decay, a proton is converted into a neutron, while in beta - decay, a neutron is converted into a proton. In both types of decay, a neutrino is emitted, but in beta + decay, a positron is also emitted, while in beta - decay, an electron is emitted.

4. What is the significance of beta + decay?

Beta + decay is a natural process that occurs in unstable atoms to achieve a more stable configuration. It is also used in medical imaging techniques such as positron emission tomography (PET) scans, where radioactive isotopes that undergo beta + decay are injected into the body to track metabolic processes.

5. Is beta + decay dangerous?

Beta + decay can be dangerous if a person is exposed to high levels of radiation from unstable atoms. However, in general, the amount of radiation emitted from beta + decay is small and can be easily shielded. In medical applications, the amount of radiation used is carefully controlled and poses minimal risk to patients.

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