Positron emission

Positron emission is a type of radioactive decay where an unstable atom's nucleus releases a positron, which is an anti-particle of the electron with the same mass but positive charge. This occurs when a proton in the nucleus transforms into a neutron, releasing a positron and a neutrino. The emitted positron quickly encounters an electron, leading to their annihilation and the release of energy in the form of gamma rays. This process helps the atom reach a more stable state and is used in medical imaging techniques like PET scans.