Neutrons

Definition

Neutrons are subatomic particles found in the nucleus of an atom, with no electric charge and a mass slightly greater than that of protons. They play a crucial role in the stability of atomic nuclei.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Neutrons were discovered by James Chadwick in 1932.
2. Neutrons have no electric charge, distinguishing them from protons and electrons.
3. The mass of a neutron is approximately 1.675 x 10^-27 kg, slightly heavier than a proton.
4. Neutrons contribute to the atomic mass but not the atomic number of an element.
5. The number of neutrons in an atom can vary, leading to different isotopes of the same element.

Review Questions

• Who discovered neutrons and in what year?
• How does the mass of a neutron compare to that of a proton?
• What role do neutrons play in determining isotopes?

Related terms

Proton:

A subatomic particle found in the nucleus with a positive electric charge and a mass slightly less than that of a neutron.

Electron:

A subatomic particle with a negative charge, found outside the nucleus in electron clouds or orbitals.

Isotope:

$$\text{Atoms}$$ of the same element containing different numbers of neutrons and thus having different atomic masses.