What describes beta particles?

Beta particles are best described as electrons ejected from the nucleus. This process occurs during beta decay, a type of radioactive decay where a neutron in the nucleus transforms into a proton while emitting a beta particle, which is essentially an electron. The emission of this electron is a key feature of beta decay, making it significant in nuclear chemistry and the study of radioactive isotopes.

In beta decay, the newly formed proton remains in the nucleus, increasing the atomic number of the atom, while the emitted beta particle is released at high speed. This is essential in understanding the behavior of radioactive substances and how they interact with other matter, as well as their implications in applications like radiotherapy and radiocarbon dating.

Understanding the nature of beta particles helps clarify their role in nuclear reactions and assists students in grasping broader concepts of atomic structure and decay processes.