The process of beta plus ($\beta^+$) decay can be represented by
$$
\begin{align*}
&\text{n} \\
&\to \text{p} + \text{X} + \beta^+ \\
&\text{Y}
\end{align*}
$$
Which row identifies particles X and Y? - AQA - A-Level Physics - Question 8 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 8
The process of beta plus ($\beta^+$) decay can be represented by
$$
\begin{align*}
&\text{n} \\
&\to \text{p} + \text{X} + \beta^+ \\
&\text{Y}
\end{align*}
$$
W... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The process of beta plus ($\beta^+$) decay can be represented by
$$
\begin{align*}
&\text{n} \\
&\to \text{p} + \text{X} + \beta^+ \\
&\text{Y}
\end{align*}
$$
Which row identifies particles X and Y? - AQA - A-Level Physics - Question 8 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
Identify the particles X and Y
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Answer
In beta plus decay, a neutron (n) is transformed into a proton (p) while emitting a positron (β+) and a neutrino (Y). Therefore, in this context, particle X is the W+ boson, which mediates the weak force responsible for this decay, and particle Y is the electron neutrino (νe). Thus, the correct identification of particles X and Y is:
X: W^+
Y: νe
Step 2
Select the correct row from the options provided
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Answer
Based on the identifications, the correct answer is option B, where X = W+ and Y = νe.