Neutron properties and interactions are described by nuclear physics. Neutrons are not elementary particles; each is composed of three quarks. A free neutron spontaneously decays to a proton, an …

Dec 28, 2025 · neutron, neutral subatomic particle that, in conjunction with protons, makes up the nucleus of every atom except ordinary hydrogen (whose nucleus has one proton and no neutrons).

Fast Facts The neutron was first discovered in 1932. All around us is a faint, natural “background” of free neutrons created by cosmic rays entering our atmosphere and by natural radioactivity from the …

Dec 4, 2022 · Specifically, a neutron contains one 'up' and two 'down' quarks. Particles made from three quarks are called baryons, and hence baryons contribute to all the baryonic 'visible' matter in the...

Jun 10, 2023 · Neutrons, subatomic particles found in every atom except hydrogen, are used in scientific research for nondestructive analysis of materials through a method called neutron scattering.

Jul 23, 2025 · Neutron, neutral subatomic particle that is a constituent of every atomic nucleus except ordinary hydrogen. Neutrons and protons are together termed nucleons since they behave in a very …

May 29, 2024 · A neutron is one of the three main particles that make up an atom, the other two being protons and electrons. Unlike protons and electrons, neutrons do not possess a charge; they are …