1930-1937: the first $\beta$-rays and neutrino theories

TL;DR

This paper reviews the foundational theories of beta rays and neutrinos from 1930-1937, highlighting their historical significance and the evolution of ideas leading to modern understanding.

Contribution

It provides a detailed analysis of the conceptual development of beta-ray and neutrino theories, emphasizing the innovative aspects and their influence on subsequent physics research.

Findings

Fermi's beta-ray theory was innovative and influential.

Three key neutrino ideas were proposed by Pauli, Fermi, and Majorana.

Majorana's neutrino concept remains relevant today.

Abstract

The conceptual bases of Fermi's $\beta$-ray theory (at its 90th anniversary) are examined, highlighting the innovative drive and inspirational role for the progress that followed just afterwards. Moreover, the three different ideas of the neutrino born from the proposals of Pauli 1930, again Fermi 1933 and Majorana 1937 papers are discussed, emphasising the interest of the latter for current expectations.