Inverse Beta Decay is a nuclear reaction in which a proton absorbs an electron to become a neutron, emitting a neutrino and a positron (or antielectron) in the process.
This reaction is forbidden for a free proton because it violates the conservation of energy and momentum. The initial state of a free proton has less energy than the final state, making the reaction impossible.
The weak nuclear force is responsible for mediating the interaction between the proton and the electron, allowing the proton to absorb the electron and transform into a neutron.
Inverse Beta Decay is important in nuclear physics as it plays a crucial role in the formation and stability of elements. It is also used in nuclear reactions and power generation.
Inverse Beta Decay is the reverse of beta decay, where a neutron decays into a proton, electron, and antineutrino. Both reactions involve the transformation of a nucleus through the weak nuclear force.