A β^- decay occurs in an unstable nucleus when A)a proton is converted to an electron by the strong force. B)a proton is converted to a neutron by the strong force. C)a neutron is converted to a proton by the weak force. D)a neutron is converted to an alpha particle by the weak force. E)a neutron is converted to a positron by the weak force.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The notation βS1U1P1-S1S1P0 indicates that a neutron is being converted to a proton (S1U1P1-S1S1) while emitting an electron (β-) and an antineutrino (ν1). This process is known as beta decay and is a type of weak force interaction. Option A is incorrect because it suggests the conversion of a proton to an electron, which is not possible since they are both fundamental particles with different properties. Option B is also incorrect because it suggests that a proton can be turned into a neutron, which is not possible through the strong force. Option D is incorrect as it suggests that a neutron can decay into an alpha particle, which is a form of radioactive decay but does not involve the weak force. Similarly, option E is incorrect as it suggests the conversion of a neutron into a positron, which is a different form of beta decay, known as beta positive decay.

A β- Decay Occurs in an Unstable Nucleus When

A β^- Decay Occurs in an Unstable Nucleus When