Which fundamental force is primarily responsible for the -decay of a neutron
PHYSICS · Single correct · A Level · Physics · Particles and radiation · Particles and radiation
Problem
Which fundamental force is primarily responsible for the β-decay of a neutron, and which property of that force makes the decay confined largely within the nucleus?
(a) Strong; its very short range confines the interaction to the nucleus.
(b) Electromagnetic; its infinite range allows the emitted particles to travel outward.
(c) Weak; its very short range limits the interaction region to nuclear dimensions.
(d) Weak; its extremely low strength prevents the force from acting beyond the nucleus.