Beta Particle
| Formula / Notation | ⁰₋₁e or β⁻; or ⁰₊₁e (β⁺ for positron) |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Beta radiation, β-particle, beta electron, negatron (β⁻), positron (β⁺) |
What is Beta Particle?
A beta particle is a high-energy, high-speed electron (β⁻) or positron (β⁺) emitted from the nucleus during beta decay of a radioactive isotope. Beta particles have intermediate penetrating power—they are stopped by a few millimetres of aluminium—and are more penetrating than alpha particles but less so than gamma rays. Beta decay changes the atomic number of the nucleus by one.
Formula & Notation
Other Names / Synonyms: Beta radiation, β-particle, beta electron, negatron (β⁻), positron (β⁺)
Properties & Characteristics
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
A beta particle is a high-energy, high-speed electron (β⁻) or positron (β⁺) emitted from the nucleus during beta decay of a radioactive isotope. Beta particles have intermediate penetrating power—they are stopped by a few millimetres of aluminium—and are more penetrating than alpha particles but less so than gamma rays. Beta decay changes the atomic number of the nucleus by one.
Beta-emitting isotopes are used in radiation therapy (strontium-90 for bone metastases, iodine-131 for thyroid cancer), in thickness gauging in manufacturing, in radiocarbon dating (¹⁴C), and as tracers in biological and environmental research.
Beta radiation can penetrate skin and cause radiation burns. Eye lenses and the lens of the eye are particularly sensitive to beta dose. Use low-Z shielding (aluminium, acrylic) to prevent bremsstrahlung X-ray production. Dosimetry badges and contamination surveys are required.
The formula or notation for Beta Particle is: ⁰₋₁e or β⁻; or ⁰₊₁e (β⁺ for positron)