Which element is generally involved in simple beta decay?

In the context of beta decay, Carbon-14 is the correct element primarily because it undergoes this type of decay in a manner that is widely studied and understood. Beta decay involves the transformation of a neutron into a proton, resulting in the emission of a beta particle (an electron or positron). Carbon-14, specifically, decays to Nitrogen-14 through beta decay, which is a fundamental process used for radiocarbon dating.

While other elements like Uranium-238, Lead-206, and Gold-197 are involved in different types of radioactive decay, they do not primarily exhibit beta decay in the same simple manner as Carbon-14. Uranium-238 primarily undergoes alpha decay, Lead-206 is a stable end product of the uranium decay chain, and Gold-197 does not typically undergo beta decay due to its stable nature. Therefore, Carbon-14 is the most illustrative example of an element that participates in simple beta decay.