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Mutual annihilation is the term we usually apply in physics to the combining of a particle and its antiparticle. Under the circumstances, the particles are completely converted into energy. That is, their entire mass is converted into electromagnetic energy. Let's look a bit more closely.

What we usually encounter is mutual annihilation events in the form of positrons interacting with electrons. The positron is the anti-particle of the electron, and shortly after the creation of the positron (either in beta plus nuclear decay or pair production), the positron will "combine" with an electron, and both particles will be completely converted into energy. This energy appears in the form of two energetic gamma rays going in opposite directions. Each gamma ray has an energy of about 0.511 MeV, or more, depending on the kinetic energy of the positron and electron that interact to release them. Links can be found below for more information.

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What happens when a particle an its corresponding particle of antimatter meet?

If a quark and anti-quark collide, they could scatter. But it is also possible (with increasing probability at lower energies) that they undergo what is called mutual annihilation. In mutual annihilation, both particles are converted entirely into energy. Quarks, it should be noted, cannot exist by themselves. It should also be noted that there are some particles created by quark-antiquark pairs. These particles, like the J/psi meson, are short-lived, but do exist. Investigators are still working on a better understanding of quarks and the relationship between the strong, weak and electromagnetic interactions.


Why are positrons short lived?

Positrons are short-lived because they are the antimatter counterpart of electrons, leading to annihilation when they interact with electrons. This annihilation results in the conversion of their mass into energy, in the form of gamma rays. As a result, positrons have a very short lifespan before they collide with an electron and cease to exist.


Can you put the word mutual in a sentence?

They developed a mutual friendship.


What types of damage could be expected from a collision from an asteroid?

World annihilation comes to mind.


How do gamma rays relate to the PET scanner?

Gamma rays are produced when a positron emitted by a radioactive tracer in the body collides with an electron, resulting in annihilation. This annihilation produces two gamma rays which are detected by the PET scanner to create an image of metabolic activity in the body. Detected gamma rays help determine the location and concentration of the radioactive tracer, allowing for visualization of physiological processes.

Related Questions

Why is surrendering a good way to end a war?

The alternatives are either annihilation (possibly mutual) or taking to the hills to carry on guerrilla combat, perhaps for years.


How can two nations at war create an effective and long lasting peace?

by both nations detering one another with assured mutual annihilation or something like that


When did Total Annihilation happen?

Total Annihilation happened in 1997.


When was Celebration of Annihilation created?

Celebration of Annihilation was created in 1996.


How many pages does Annihilation - novel - have?

"Annihilation" by Jeff VanderMeer has for around 195 pages.


Is assimilation truly a more effective approach than annihilation in fostering unity and understanding among diverse groups?

Assimilation and annihilation are both controversial methods for promoting unity among diverse groups. Assimilation involves integrating different cultures into a dominant one, while annihilation seeks to eliminate differences altogether. However, assimilation is generally considered more effective in fostering unity and understanding, as it allows for the preservation of cultural identities while promoting cooperation and mutual respect. Annihilation, on the other hand, can lead to conflict, resentment, and the loss of valuable diversity.


Which mod of total annihilation spring is most like tawp?

Balanced Annihilation


When was Time for Annihilation created?

Time for Annihilation was created on 2010-08-31.


When was Annihilation Principle created?

Annihilation Principle was created on -19-09-08.


When was Gateways to Annihilation created?

Gateways to Annihilation was created on 2000-10-17.


When was Annihilation of Civilization created?

Annihilation of Civilization was created on 1989-04-03.


When was Annihilation - novel - created?

Annihilation - novel - was created on 2004-06-01.