Neutrons

Definition

Neutrons are subatomic particles found in the nucleus of an atom that have no electric charge. They contribute to the atomic mass and play a crucial role in the stability of the nucleus.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Neutrons are neutral particles, meaning they have no electric charge.
2. The number of neutrons in an atom can vary, resulting in different isotopes of an element.
3. Neutrons and protons together make up almost all of an atom's mass.
4. The presence of neutrons helps to stabilize the nucleus by offsetting the repulsive forces between positively charged protons.
5. Neutrons were discovered by James Chadwick in 1932.

Review Questions

• What is the electric charge of a neutron?
• How do neutrons contribute to the atomic mass?
• Who discovered neutrons and when?

Related terms

Protons:

Positively charged subatomic particles found in the nucleus of an atom.

Electrons:

Negatively charged subatomic particles that orbit the nucleus of an atom.

Isotopes:

Variants of a particular chemical element that differ in neutron number but have the same number of protons.