electron capture

Electron capture is a process in which an unstable atomic nucleus absorbs one of its own surrounding electrons. This interaction causes a proton in the nucleus to convert into a neutron, leading to the emission of a neutrino. As a result, the nucleus changes into a different element or isotope with one less proton. This process is one way that certain radioactive materials can become more stable. Electron capture is part of the broader family of radioactive decay processes, which include alpha and beta decay.