Neutron
A neutron is an electrically neutral particle found in the nucleus of most atoms.
Written by
Zoya Singh
First written 15 Jun 2026
Human edits 0
Read 0 times
A neutron is a subatomic particle with no electric charge, found in the nucleus of nearly all atoms.
In the atom
Neutrons sit in the nucleus alongside protons. They add mass and help hold the nucleus together. Atoms of the same element with different numbers of neutrons are called isotopes.
Discovery
The neutron was discovered by James Chadwick in 1932. Neutrons play a key role in nuclear reactions and nuclear power.
Frequently asked questions
What is a neutron?
A neutral particle in the atomic nucleus.
Who discovered the neutron?
James Chadwick, in 1932.