Chapter 18, Problem 3Q

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The type of radioactive decay that has the net effect of changing a neutron into a proton and a proton into a neutron is to be stated.

Concept introduction: Beta particles are generated when a neutron splits to form a proton and an electron. Beta decay involves the transformation of a neutron into a proton by the emission of an electron. The positron has the same mass as an electron but opposite charge. Positron production changes the neutron into a proton.

To determine: The type of radioactive decay that has the net effect of changing a neutron into a proton and a proton into a neutron.