Q82 / 160 · JIPMER 2009 · Physics

In radioactive decay process, the negatively charged emitted $\beta$-particles are

  • A
    the electrons present inside the nucleus
  • Correct answer
    B
    the electrons produced as a result of the decay of neutrons inside the nucleus
  • C
    the electrons produced as a result of collisions between atoms
  • D
    the electrons orbiting around the nucleus

Solution

Beta decay can involve the emission of either electrons or positrons. The electrons or positrons emitted in a $\beta$-decay do not exist inside the nucleus. They are only created at the time of emission, just as photons are created when an atom makes a transition from higher to a lower energy state. In negative $\beta$-decay a neutron in the nucleus is transformed into a proton, an electron and an antineutrino. Hence, in radioactive decay process, the negatively charged emitted $\beta$-particles are the electrons produced as a result of the decay of neutrons present inside the nucleus.

Hence, the correct answer is option: 'B'.

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