Physics Nuclear Physics MDCAT 2011
PMDC Verified Question 91 of 98
The transformation of a neutron into proton in the nucleus gives rise to emission of:
A
Beta particles
B
Gamma particles
C
Alpha particles
D
X-rays
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option A: Beta particles


Concept:

In unstable, neutron-rich nuclei, the weak interaction can cause a neutron to spontaneously decay into a proton, an electron, and an electron antineutrino.

Formula:

$$ _{0}^{1}\text{n} \rightarrow _{1}^{1}\text{p} + _{-1}^{0}\text{e} + \bar{\nu}_e $$

Solution:

  • The newly formed proton remains in the nucleus, increasing the atomic number by 1.


  • The highly energetic electron (\(_{-1}^{0}\text{e}\)) is immediately ejected from the nucleus. This ejected electron is known as a beta (\(\beta^{-}\)) particle.


Why other options are incorrect:

Gamma emission occurs when an excited nucleus relaxes, without changing protons or neutrons. Alpha decay involves emitting a helium nucleus. X-rays originate from atomic electron transitions.

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