How to turn a proton into neutron by e+p->n?

In summary, it is possible to turn a proton into a neutron by forcing an electron into it, but it requires a high energy electron and results in the electron turning into a neutrino and the proton becoming a neutron. This process, known as electron capture, is usually seen in unstable isotopes, but can also occur with an electron beam on a hydrogen target. The required energy is given by the mass differences, with the balance being slightly less than 0.8 MeV in the case of an electron incident on a free proton.
  • #1
NERV
12
0
how to turn a proton into neutron by e+p-->n?

Just as the topic said,is it possible to turn a proton into a neutron by forcing a electron into the proton?If it's possible,what condition is it required?
 
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  • #2
[tex]n^0 \rightarrow p^+ + e^- + \overline\nu _e[/tex]
 
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  • #3


Actually it's completely possible provided your electron has enough energy, it will turn itself into a neutrino and the proton into a neutron (via [itex]W^{-}[/itex] exchange, a u becomes a d, both quarks being in the same SU(2) isospin doublet connected by this exchange).

Note that the reaction is as interesting as its final state is daunting.
 
  • #4


I know there is a way of electron capture.But,how much energy is it needed?In other words,WHAT CONDITION is the capture reaction required?
 
  • #5


NERV said:
I know there is a way of electron capture.But,how much energy is it needed?In other words,WHAT CONDITION is the capture reaction required?
Electron capture usually refers to unstable isotope. It's a spontaneous atomic and nuclear process. I was referring to an electron beam on a hydrogen target. But in any case, the energy required will be given by the differences between the masses (and you can neglect the mass of the neutrino !). If you have an electron incident on a free proton, the balance is positive anyway by slightly less than 0.8 MeV.
 
  • #6


Thanks a lot.Your quote was what I was answering #2,not for you ^-^.And you seems to have the same idea(to beam hydrogen targets with electrons).
 

1. How can a proton be turned into a neutron?

A proton can be turned into a neutron through a process called beta decay, where a proton emits a positron (e+) and a neutrino (v) to become a neutron. This process is also known as inverse beta decay and can occur naturally in radioactive elements or can be induced in a laboratory setting.

2. What is the equation for turning a proton into a neutron?

The equation for converting a proton into a neutron is e+ + p -> n + v, where e+ represents a positron, p represents a proton, n represents a neutron, and v represents a neutrino.

3. What conditions are required for e+p->n to occur?

E+p->n can occur in two ways - either through natural beta decay in a radioactive element or through the use of high energy particles in a laboratory setting. In both cases, the process requires a high energy input to overcome the strong force that holds the proton together.

4. Can e+p->n be reversed?

Yes, e+p->n can be reversed through the process of beta decay, where a neutron emits an electron (e-) and an antineutrino (v-bar) to become a proton. This process is also known as beta minus decay or inverse beta minus decay.

5. What are the applications of e+p->n in science?

E+p->n is a fundamental process in understanding nuclear reactions and radioactive decay. It is also used in nuclear power plants to generate energy and in medical imaging techniques such as PET scans, where positrons are emitted and detected by a machine to create images of internal body structures. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in the formation of elements in the universe, as it is responsible for converting protons into neutrons in the cores of stars.

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