Science
What is a neutron?
A neutron is an electrically neutral particle found in the nucleus of atoms, alongside protons. Neutrons add mass and help hold the nucleus together; changing their number creates isotopes of the same element.
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Watch a 2-minute lesson with voice + animation that explains a neutron.
Key things to understand
- 1It's a neutral (no-charge) particle in the atom's nucleus.
- 2It has nearly the same mass as a proton.
- 3It helps bind the nucleus together.
- 4Changing the neutron count makes different isotopes.
- 5Free neutrons can trigger nuclear fission.
Frequently asked questions
- What is a neutron's role in the atom?
- It adds mass and helps hold the nucleus together; varying the number of neutrons creates isotopes of an element.
- How do neutrons create isotopes?
- Atoms of the same element always have the same protons but can have different neutron counts — those variants are isotopes.
- Why are neutrons used in nuclear power?
- A free neutron can split a heavy nucleus, releasing energy and more neutrons that sustain a chain reaction.