Beta Decay
Definition
Beta decay is a type of radioactive decay in which a beta particle (either an electron or a positron) is emitted from the nucleus of an atom.
Analogy
Imagine you have a group of friends sitting together, and suddenly one friend gets up and leaves the group. This is similar to beta decay, where a particle (beta particle) leaves the nucleus of an atom.
Related terms
Alpha Decay: Alpha decay is another type of radioactive decay in which an alpha particle (two protons and two neutrons) is emitted from the nucleus.
Gamma Decay: Gamma decay is a type of radioactive decay that involves the emission of gamma rays, which are high-energy photons.
Half-Life: Half-life refers to the time it takes for half of the radioactive atoms in a sample to undergo radioactive decay.
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