Nuclides decaying by beta decay are typically _____ rich.

In beta decay, a nuclide transforms as a neutron is converted into a proton while emitting a beta particle, which is an electron or a positron. This process occurs in nuclides that have an excess of neutrons compared to protons. As a result, these nuclides are described as being neutron-rich.

When a neutron-rich nuclide undergoes beta decay, the excess neutrons contribute to the instability of the nucleus, pushing it to decay in order to achieve a more balanced ratio of neutrons to protons. This adjustment is crucial for the stability of the atomic nucleus and helps it move towards a more stable state. Hence, the characteristic feature of beta decay is that it typically occurs in isotopes that are rich in neutrons.