While electrons are typically found orbiting the nucleus of an atom, they can also be emitted from the nucleus in certain nuclear processes like beta decay. In beta decay, a neutron within the nucleus transforms into a proton, an electron, and an antineutrino. The electron is then emitted from the nucleus.
Here's a summary of the key characteristics:
* Negligible Mass: Electrons have a very small mass compared to protons and neutrons.
* Charge of -1: They carry a negative electrical charge, equal in magnitude but opposite in sign to the charge of a proton.
* Emission from Nucleus: While electrons are typically found in orbitals around the nucleus, they can be emitted from the nucleus during certain nuclear reactions.
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