Neutron
Neutron
Neutron (/ˈnjuːtrɒn/) is a subatomic particle, symbol n or n0, which has a neutral (not positive or negative) charge and is found in the nucleus of an atom. It is slightly heavier than a proton.
Etymology
The term "neutron" comes from the word "neutral", indicating its lack of electric charge, and the Greek suffix "-on" (a diminutive suffix used in the names of subatomic particles, i.e., electron and proton).
Properties
Neutrons are classified as baryons and are composed of two down quarks and one up quark. They are bound together by the strong force. Neutrons are stable in the nucleus of an atom but are unstable in free state.
Related Terms
- Atom: The basic unit of a chemical element, and the smallest unit that exists of an element that retains the properties of that element, consisting of a nucleus and electrons.
- Proton: A subatomic particle found in the nucleus of every atom. It carries a positive electric charge.
- Quark: Any of several elementary particles that are postulated to come in pairs (as in the up and down varieties) of similar mass with one member of the pair having a charge of +2/3 and the other a charge of -1/3.
- Strong Force: One of the four fundamental forces in nature, it is responsible for holding atomic nuclei together.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Neutron
- Wikipedia's article - Neutron
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