Beta Decay Question

Question

In the EK chem book, it says position emission and electron capture are a form of beta-decay. Beta decay is the breakdown of a Neutron into a proton and electron (which is ejected). But position emission is when a proton becomes a neutron. Electron capture is electron plus proton to form a neutron. So I was just wondering how they would be classified under beta-decay? ​

Answer 1

Electron capture isn't really considered beta decay, as it is the reverse of beta decay. The primary form of beta decay is electron emission although positron emission also occurs as you describe.

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