What type of charge does beta-minus decay have?

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Beta-minus decay involves the transformation of a neutron into a proton within an unstable nucleus, accompanied by the emission of a beta particle, which is essentially an electron. This beta particle carries a negative charge, which is fundamental to the nature of beta-minus decay. The process effectively increases the positive charge of the nucleus by converting a neutron (neutral charge) into a proton (positive charge), which also influences the overall charge of the emitted particle. This characteristic of beta particles makes it essential for understanding various nuclear processes and the interactions of ionizing radiation with matter.

In this context, the other options do not apply, as beta-minus decay specifically results in the release of a negatively charged electron, thereby reinforcing the concept that this type of decay is associated with a negative charge.

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