noun
- subatomic particles with no electric charge found in the nucleus of an atom
Usage: physics; plural of neutron
Examples
- Neutrons and protons make up the nucleus of an atom.
- Heavy water contains neutrons in its hydrogen atoms.
- Nuclear reactors use neutrons to split uranium atoms.
- Scientists can detect neutrons using special instruments.
- The number of neutrons determines an element’s isotope.
- Neutrons have slightly more mass than protons.