Key Stage 5
Meaning
Beta-plus radiation consists of positrons (β⁺) emitted by unstable proton-rich nuclei.
About Beta-Plus Radiation
- Beta-plus radiation is emitted during beta-plus decay when a proton transmutes into a neutron, positron, and neutrino.
- Positrons travel no further than about 2 mm in solids or liquids before being annihilated.
- Positron emission results from proton to neutron conversion in the nucleus.
- Produces gamma rays upon annihilation with electrons.
- Positrons are the antimatter counterparts of electrons.
- Beta-plus radiation helps in studying nuclear structures and particle interactions.
Examples
- Used in Positron Emission Tomography (PET scans) for medical imaging.
- Studied in particle physics to understand antimatter.