The short-range force that causes beta decay is called the ______ force.Multiple choice question.electromagneticstrongweakgravitational

The short-range force that causes beta decay is called the weak force.

Explanation:

1. Electromagnetic Force: This force is responsible for interactions between charged particles but does not contribute to beta decay.
2. Strong Force: This is the force that holds protons and neutrons together in the nucleus, but it does not facilitate the decay process.
3. Weak Force: This is the correct answer, as it is the fundamental force responsible for the process of beta decay, where a neutron decays into a proton, emitting an electron (beta particle) and an antineutrino.
4. Gravitational Force: This force is much weaker than the others and does not play a role in particle decay.

Thus, the answer is weak.