Beta Decay (Noun)
Meaning
Radioactive decay of an atomic nucleus that is accompanied by the emission of a beta particle.
Classification
Nouns denoting natural processes.
Examples
- Beta decay is a type of radioactive decay in which a beta particle is emitted from the nucleus of an atom.
- The process of beta decay involves the transformation of a neutron into a proton, an electron, and a neutrino.
- Beta decay is a common mode of decay for many radioactive isotopes, including those used in medical applications.
- In beta decay, the emitted beta particle can be either a positron or an electron, depending on the type of decay that occurs.
- The study of beta decay has led to a greater understanding of the structure of atomic nuclei and the forces that hold them together.