beta decay

noun

: a radioactive nuclear transformation governed by the weak force in which a nucleon (such as a neutron) changes into a nucleon (such as a proton) of the other type with the emission of either an electron and an antineutrino or a positron and a neutrino

Examples of beta decay in a Sentence

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As a result of this process, known as beta decay, the nucleus also emits an electron or its antimatter partner, the positron. — Paul Sutter, Ars Technica, 11 June 2024 In double beta decay, the interaction is doubled: Two neutrons simultaneously decay into two protons. — Dolly Setton, Discover Magazine, 30 July 2014

Word History

First Known Use

1931, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of beta decay was in 1931

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“Beta decay.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/beta%20decay. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about beta decay

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