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A neutron can transform into a proton, an electron, and an antineutrino through a process called beta decay. During beta decay, a neutron in the nucleus of an atom is converted into a proton, an electron (beta particle), and an antineutrino. This process helps maintain the balance of protons and neutrons in the nucleus.
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Do neutrons decay, and if so, what is the process involved in their decay?
Yes, neutrons can decay. Neutron decay is a process where a neutron transforms into a proton, an electron, and an antineutrino. This process is known as beta decay.
Where does the electron go in beta decay?
In beta decay, the electron (or positron) is emitted from the nucleus when a neutron transforms into a proton or vice versa. The electron is released from the nucleus as a result of the decay process, carrying away energy and creating a new element.
What decay occurs when a nucleus emits an electron in the process of a proton decaying into a neutron?
The decay process you are referring to is called beta-plus decay, also known as positron emission. In this process, a proton within the nucleus transforms into a neutron by emitting a positron (anti-electron) and an electron neutrino. This results in a decrease of one in the atomic number of the nucleus while the mass number remains constant.
Is the electron or the neutron or the proton lighter?
The electron, the neutron and the proton are the building blocks of the atom. And of the three, the electron is far and away the lightest. The neutron is slightly heavier than the proton, and either particle is over 1800 times more massive than our little electron.
What is an electron called that is produced when neutron decays?
An electron produced when a neutron decays is called a beta particle or beta-minus particle. It is one of the products of beta decay, in which a neutron in the nucleus transforms into a proton, electron, and antineutrino.
