Chapter 32, Problem 20Q

To determine

Whether the reaction $e^{-}+p\to n+\overline{v_e}$ is possible or not.

Answer to Problem 20Q

Solution:

The reaction is not possible.

Explanation of Solution

The given reaction is as follows:

$e^{-}+p\to n+\overline{v_e}$

The conservation of charge for the reaction is as follows:

$\begin{array}{c}\left(-1\right)+\left(+1\right)\to \left(0\right)+\left(0\right)\\ 0\to 0\end{array}$

The conservation of Baryon for the reaction is as follows:

$\begin{array}{c}\left(0\right)+\left(+1\right)\to \left(+1\right)+\left(0\right)\\ 1\to 1\end{array}$

The conservation of Lepton number for the reaction is as follows:

$\begin{array}{c}\left(+1\right)+\left(0\right)\to \left(0\right)+\left(-1\right)\\ 1\to -1\end{array}$

Since, lepton number is not conserved for this reaction. Therefore, the reaction is not possible and is forbidden.