How do neutrons work?

Answer 1

There are 2 types of nuclear reaction: fusion and fission. Fusion is when 2 or more nuclei of atoms join together, fission is when one nucleus splits into two of more pieces. Larger nuclei tend to fission while smaller ones tend to fuse.


With fusion the aim is to fire the nuclei at each other fast enough so that they get close enough to stick together. This gives off lots of energy and is the primary energy source of modern nuclear weapons. For fusion of nuclei smaller than iron's the energy given off is enough to speed up nearby nuclei to the point where they fuse to. This leads to a chain reaction resulting in a massive explosion.


In fission a neutron is fired at a large nucleus, usually of Uranium or Plutonium. this de-stabilises it causing it to break apart. This gives off energy and fast-moving neutrons (which hit more nuclei and cause more fission, a chain reaction). This is what was used in old-fashioned nuclear weapons and is now used in nuclear power plants.


Fission gives less energy than fusion (per nucleon) but is easier to start and control than fusion. You can stop a fission chain reaction by introducing cooling rods. The cooling rods absorb neutrons, stopping the process. The heat given off in the fission chamber of a nuclear power plant is used to boil water, which turns a turbine, which generates electricity.

Answer 2

Neutrons are subatomic particles found in the nucleus of an atom. They have no electric charge, but they play a crucial role in stabilizing the nucleus by providing nuclear binding energy. Neutrons are also involved in nuclear reactions, such as fission and fusion, and can be used in applications like nuclear power generation and neutron scattering studies.

Answer 3

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