Neutrons

what is a neutron?

A neutron is a subatomic particle found in the nucleus of an atom, alongside protons. Unlike protons and electrons, it carries no electric charge (neutral).

basic properties

• symbol: n⁰
• charge: 0 (neutral)
• mass: about 1 amu (slightly more than a proton)
• location: inside the atomic nucleus

discovery

james chadwick discovered the neutron in 1932. His experiments showed that radiation emitted from certain elements could not be explained by the presence of only protons and electrons.

function of neutrons

• Add mass to atoms without affecting charge
• Stabilize the atomic nucleus by offsetting repulsive forces between positively charged protons
• Define different isotopes of the same element (same number of protons, different number of neutrons)

example: carbon isotopes

• carbon-12: 6 protons, 6 neutrons
• carbon-14: 6 protons, 8 neutrons

role in nuclear physics

• nuclear fission: neutrons split atomic nuclei in power plants or weapons
• nuclear fusion: neutrons are produced when light atoms combine (as in stars)
• Neutrons can activate nuclear reactions, making them essential in reactors

see also

• protons
• electrons
• nucleus
• atomic mass
• isotopes
• james chadwick

disclaimer

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