Beta Decay Q Value Calculator

Formula

The formula to calculate the Beta Decay Q Value (Q) is:

\[ Q = (M_p - M_d) \cdot 931.494 \]

Where:

Beta Decay Q Value (Q): The energy released during beta decay, measured in MeV.
Mass of the Parent Nucleus (M_p): The mass of the nucleus before beta decay, measured in atomic mass units (u).
Mass of the Daughter Nucleus (M_d): The mass of the nucleus after beta decay, measured in atomic mass units (u).
Significance: The Q value is important in nuclear physics as it indicates the energy released during the decay process.

Let's say the mass of the parent nucleus (M_p) is 14.0031 u and the mass of the daughter nucleus (M_d) is 14.0030 u. Using the formula:

\[ Q = (14.0031 - 14.0030) \cdot 931.494 = 0.0001 \cdot 931.494 = 0.0931 \]

So, the beta decay Q value is 0.0931 MeV.

Extended information about "Beta-Decay-Q-Value-Calculator"

Definition: The equation representing beta plus decay, where a proton is converted into a neutron, a positron, and a neutrino.

Formula: \( p \rightarrow n + e^+ + \nu_e \)

Example: \( p \rightarrow n + e^+ + \nu_e \)

Definition: The equation representing beta minus decay, where a neutron is converted into a proton, an electron, and an antineutrino.

Formula: \( n \rightarrow p + e^- + \bar{\nu}_e \)

Example: \( n \rightarrow p + e^- + \bar{\nu}_e \)

Definition: The Q value represents the energy released during alpha decay.

Formula: \( Q = (m_p - m_d - m_\alpha)c^2 \)

Example: \( Q = (238 - 234 - 4) \times (3 \times 10^8)^2 \)