Maximum Helium Fraction: Neutron Decay Time & Rest Mass Difference

Helium fraction, Yp, is 1/7.In summary, the conversation discusses the neutron decay time and the difference in rest mass between a neutron and a proton. It also mentions the maximum Helium fraction, Yp, and how it relates to the decay of a neutron into a He-3 atom. However, more information is needed to accurately solve the problem at hand.
  • #1
bolahab
7
0
Suppose the neutron decay time n was 89 sec. AND the difference in
rest mass between neutron to proton, Qn, was 0.129 MeV. What would
the maximum Helium fraction, Yp, be?
 
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  • #2
bolahab said:
Suppose the neutron decay time n was 89 sec. AND the difference in
rest mass between neutron to proton, Qn, was 0.129 MeV. What would
the maximum Helium fraction, Yp, be?
One needs to provide more information in order to solve this problem. A free neutron decays into a proton, electron and antineutrino, so the product of free neutron decay would be hydrogen. Or is the neutron decaying in a tritium atom, which then is transformed to He-3?

Or does one mean hydrogen rather than He?
 
  • #3
yes it is transformed into He-3, that was all the info from the question, but the rest info as it says in the book when it is transformed into He-3
 

Related to Maximum Helium Fraction: Neutron Decay Time & Rest Mass Difference

1. What is the maximum helium fraction in the context of neutron decay time and rest mass difference?

The maximum helium fraction refers to the highest possible ratio of helium to hydrogen in a neutron's decay products. This is important in understanding the properties of the neutron, including its decay time and rest mass difference.

2. How is the maximum helium fraction related to neutron decay time and rest mass difference?

The maximum helium fraction is directly related to the neutron's decay time and rest mass difference. This is because the amount of helium produced in a neutron decay is dependent on the neutron's rest mass difference, which in turn affects the rate of decay.

3. What is the significance of studying the maximum helium fraction in relation to neutron decay?

Studying the maximum helium fraction allows scientists to better understand the fundamental properties of the neutron, such as its decay time and rest mass difference. This information can also provide insights into the behavior of other subatomic particles and the structure of the universe.

4. How is the maximum helium fraction calculated in experiments?

The maximum helium fraction can be calculated by measuring the ratio of helium to hydrogen in a sample of neutron decay products. This can be done through various experimental techniques, such as spectroscopy or particle detectors.

5. Are there any potential applications of understanding the maximum helium fraction in neutron decay?

Yes, there are potential applications of understanding the maximum helium fraction in neutron decay. This knowledge could potentially lead to advancements in fields such as nuclear energy and astrophysics, as well as contribute to our overall understanding of the fundamental forces and particles in the universe.

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