Difference between revisions of "Electron Capture"
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| + | [[File:FeynmanDiagramElectronCapture.png|right|300px|thumb|This is a '''Feynman diagram''' showing '''Electron capture''' due to the [[Weak Nuclear Interaction|weak interaction]] in which a [[proton]] [[Electron Capture|captures]] an [[electron]] to become a [[neutron]].]] | ||
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===Meaning=== | ===Meaning=== | ||
'''Electron capture''' is a process in which a [[Proton-rich Nucleus|proton-rich nucleus]] absorbs an [[Inner Shell|inner-shell]] [[electron]], causing a [[proton]] to transmute into a [[neutron]] and [[emit]]ting a [[neutrino]]. | '''Electron capture''' is a process in which a [[Proton-rich Nucleus|proton-rich nucleus]] absorbs an [[Inner Shell|inner-shell]] [[electron]], causing a [[proton]] to transmute into a [[neutron]] and [[emit]]ting a [[neutrino]]. | ||
Revision as of 09:46, 30 May 2024
Key Stage 5
This is a Feynman diagram showing Electron capture due to the weak interaction in which a proton captures an electron to become a neutron.
Meaning
Electron capture is a process in which a proton-rich nucleus absorbs an inner-shell electron, causing a proton to transmute into a neutron and emitting a neutrino.
About Electron Capture
- Electron capture typically occurs in proton-rich isotopes.
- The captured electron combines with a proton to form a neutron and an electron neutrino (νe).
- Electron capture reduces the atomic number by one while the mass number remains the same.
- Electron capture is often followed by the emission of X-rays as electrons from higher energy levels fall into the lower energy vacancy.
- Electron capture helps to achieve a more stable nucleus by reducing proton number.
Examples
Electron capture occurs in Beryllium-7 to form Lithium-7.