Which Can Proceed Through a Purely Electromagnetic Interaction?

In summary, weak interactions are one of the four fundamental forces of nature that are responsible for radioactive decay and play a crucial role in the stability of atomic nuclei. They occur between subatomic particles and are mediated by W and Z bosons. Weak interactions play a crucial role in the formation of the universe, such as the fusion of protons in stars and the production of heavy elements. Unlike other fundamental forces, they have a short range and are weaker. While they cannot currently be manipulated, scientists are researching ways to do so for potential applications in fields such as nuclear energy and medicine.
  • #1
through.time
4
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The production of a muon/antimuon pair from an electron and positron
or...
The production of a neutrino/antineutrino pair from an electron and a positron?

The only weak interactions I know of are beta-minus decay, beta-plus decay and electron capture. All the sources I've found say they both involve weak interactions :(
 
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  • #2
Yes, they both involve the weak interaction. But one of them can proceed through a purely electromagnetic interaction. Which one?
 

FAQ: Which Can Proceed Through a Purely Electromagnetic Interaction?

1. What are weak interactions?

Weak interactions are one of the four fundamental forces of nature, along with gravity, electromagnetism, and strong interactions. They are responsible for radioactive decay and play a crucial role in the stability of atomic nuclei.

2. How do weak interactions work?

Weak interactions occur between subatomic particles, such as protons, neutrons, and electrons. They are mediated by particles called W and Z bosons, which are responsible for transferring energy and momentum between particles.

3. What is the role of weak interactions in the universe?

Weak interactions play a crucial role in the formation of the universe. They are responsible for the fusion of protons in the core of stars, which produces energy and allows stars to shine. They also play a role in the production of heavy elements, such as gold and uranium, through the process of supernovae explosions.

4. How are weak interactions different from other fundamental forces?

Unlike gravity and electromagnetism, which have an infinite range, weak interactions have a very short range and are only effective over distances of about 10^-18 meters. They are also much weaker than the other fundamental forces, making them difficult to observe and study.

5. Can weak interactions be manipulated or controlled?

While scientists have not yet found a way to manipulate weak interactions, they are actively researching ways to do so. Manipulating weak interactions could have important applications in fields such as nuclear energy and medicine.

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