Question

Loss of a \(\beta\) particle is equivalent to (a) increase of one proton only (b) decrease of one neutron only (c) both (a) and (b) (d) none of these

Short answer

(c) both (a) and (b)

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Nature of a Beta Particle

A beta particle is a fast-moving electron emitted from the nucleus of an atom during radioactive decay. When a neutron decays into a proton, an electron (beta particle) and an antineutrino are emitted.

Impact on Neutron and Proton Count

During beta decay, a neutron in the nucleus transforms into a proton. As a result, the total number of protons in the nucleus increases by one, and the number of neutrons decreases by one.

Analyzing the Options

Option (a) suggests an increase of one proton only, while option (b) suggests a decrease of one neutron only. Both changes occur in beta decay, so option (c) both (a) and (b) accurately describes the outcome.

Key concepts

Radioactive Decay

Radioactive decay is a natural process where an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by emitting radiation. This phenomenon results in the transformation of the original atom into a different element, often accompanied by the release of particles or electromagnetic radiation. Here's an easy way to grasp this concept:

• Radioactive decay can occur spontaneously, meaning it happens without any external influence.
• It's a common process used to explain natural phenomena like the decay of radioactive elements such as uranium or carbon-14.
• During decay, the unstable nucleus emits radiation to become more stable.

This emission process can take various forms such as alpha, beta, or gamma decay. Each type involves a different particle emission and results in changes to the atomic nucleus. Beta decay, in particular, is interesting because it involves the conversion processes within the nucleus itself, affecting its composition.

Neutron to Proton Conversion

Neutron to proton conversion is a fundamental process during beta decay. It's the key event that changes the composition of the nucleus and leads to the emission of a beta particle. Here's what happens in simple terms:

Inside the nucleus, a neutron is made up of elementary particles called quarks. These are combined in such a way that transforms the neutron into a proton. This change is known as the weak nuclear interaction.

• The neutron in the nucleus finds a new identity by turning into a proton.
• This conversion changes the identity of the atom to a different element, since the number of protons determines the element type.

As the neutron transforms, it doesn't vanish without a trace. Instead, it leaves behind an electron and an antineutrino. The emitted electron is what we call a beta particle. This conversion is a critical concept for understanding nuclear physics and helps explain why certain elements can change into others over time.

Beta Particle Emission

Beta particle emission is a critical part of beta decay and results from the conversion of a neutron into a proton. Here’s a breakdown of how this works:

During this process, the nucleus emits a beta particle, which is essentially a high-speed electron. Unlike other particles, this emitted electron does not orbit the nucleus but is rather a byproduct of the decay process happening inside it.

• Beta particles are high-energy, high-speed electrons ejected from the nucleus.
• Though small, they carry enough energy to penetrate materials and ionize atoms they come into contact with.
• The emission of beta particles can change the material properties, especially in biological contexts, which is why beta radiation can be hazardous.

In summary, beta particle emission is a fascinating result of nuclear transformations. By understanding this process, we gain insight into the broader workings of atomic decay and the changes it brings about in matter.