On the Annihilation of Positrons

Abstract

We shall discuss the annihilation of positrons by a process in which only one quantum of light is emitted. The positive electron is regarded as a hole or unoccupied state in the distribution of electrons in negative energy states, and is destroyed by an atomic electron jumping down into it with the emission of a single quantum. This process is only possible in the presence of a nucleus, which can take up the momentum liberated, and is therefore most probable when the atomic electron is a K-electron.