Delayed nuclear radiation

For example,

⁷³
₃₁Ga
→ ^73m2
₃₂Ge
+ 2
γ
+
e⁻
 ; ^73m2
₃₂Ge
→ ⁷³
₃₂Ge⁺
+
γ
(53.4 keV) +
γ
(13.3 keV) +
e⁻

Because the middle isotope is so short-lived, the gamma rays are considered part of the gallium decay. Therefore, the above equations are combined.

⁷³
₃₁Ga
→ ⁷³
₃₂Ge⁺
+ 4
γ
+ 2
e⁻

However, since there is a short time delay between the beta decay and the high energy gamma emissions and the third and fourth gamma rays, it is said that the lower energy gamma rays are delayed.

Delayed gamma emissions are the most common form of delayed radiation, but are not the only form. It is common for the short-lived isotopes to have delayed emissions of various particles. In these cases, it is commonly called a beta-delayed emission. This is because the decay is delayed until a beta decay takes place. For instance,

See also