Concepts Of Physics MCQ Edition [Volume 2]PhysicsThe Nucleus
In the process of negative beta decay,
Options
- Aa proton within the nucleus decays and emits an electron
- Ban electron already residing inside the nucleus is expelled
- Ca neutron within the nucleus decays and emits an electron
- Dan atomic electron is expelled
Correct answer
C. a neutron within the nucleus decays and emits an electron
Step-by-step solution
In negative beta decay ( ⁻ decay), a neutron inside the nucleus is unstable and transforms into a proton, an electron, and an electron antineutrino. The nuclear reaction is given by: n p + e⁻ + _ e The emitted electron ( e⁻ ) is expelled from the nucleus as a beta particle. Electrons do not pre-exist inside the nucleus; they are created during the decay process. Therefore, a neutron within the nucleus decays and emits an electron.