Beta Decay Equation Calculator

Beta Minus Decay Equation:

\[ \text{Parent} \rightarrow \text{Daughter} + \beta^- + \bar{\nu} \]

Beta Decay Equation:

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1. What is Beta Minus Decay?

Beta minus decay (β⁻ decay) is a type of radioactive decay where an unstable atomic nucleus transforms a neutron into a proton, emitting an electron (beta particle) and an antineutrino in the process.

2. How Does Beta Decay Work?

The beta minus decay process follows this nuclear reaction:

\[ n \rightarrow p + e^- + \bar{\nu} \]

Where:

\( n \) — Neutron
\( p \) — Proton
\( e^- \) — Electron (beta particle)
\( \bar{\nu} \) — Antineutrino

Explanation: In the nucleus, a neutron converts to a proton, increasing the atomic number by 1 while keeping the mass number constant.

3. Nuclear Equation Explanation

Details: The general form of beta minus decay is: Parent → Daughter + β⁻ + ν̄. The mass number remains the same, but the atomic number increases by 1.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the parent element symbol, mass number, and atomic number. The calculator will generate the complete beta decay equation showing the daughter isotope.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What happens to the atomic number in beta minus decay?
A: The atomic number increases by 1 because a neutron changes into a proton.

Q2: Why does the mass number stay the same?
A: The total number of nucleons (protons + neutrons) remains constant; only the composition changes.

Q3: What is the role of the antineutrino?
A: The antineutrino carries away excess energy and momentum to conserve these quantities in the decay process.

Q4: How is beta decay different from alpha decay?
A: Alpha decay emits helium nuclei (mass number decreases by 4, atomic number by 2), while beta decay changes nuclear composition without altering mass number.

Q5: What are some common beta emitters?
A: Carbon-14, Potassium-40, and Tritium (Hydrogen-3) are well-known beta emitters used in various applications.