Q17 CQ - College Physics (Urone)

Question

What do the three types of beta decay have in common that is distinctly different from alpha decay?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Daughters of beta decay have one more proton and one fewer neutron, whereas alpha decay daughters have two fewer neutrons and two fewer protons.

Step 1: Definition of Alpha and Beta decay

The process of radioactive decay known as "alpha decay," in which an atomic nucleus produces an alpha particle and changes into a separate atomic nucleus with a mass number that is reduced by four and an atomic number that is reduced by two, is known as radioactive decay.

 

Beta decay is a type of radioactive decay in nuclear physics in which a beta particle is emitted from an atomic nucleus, converting the original nuclide to an isobar of that nuclide.

Step 2: Explanation

Alpha decay occurs when the parent nucleus separates from the\(^4He\)nucleus, leaving a daughter with two fewer neutrons and two fewer protons than the parent. Electron emission, electron capture, and antielectron decay are the three types of beta decay. All beta decay occurs as a result of the parent nuclide's instability.

The difference between the three types of beta decay and alpha decay is that beta decay daughters have one more proton and one fewer neutrons, whereas alpha decay daughters have two fewer neutrons and two fewer protons.