Neutron was discovered by

The correct answer is Chadwick.

Key Points

• The neutron was discovered by James Chadwick in 1932 during experiments involving the interaction of beryllium with alpha particles.
• Chadwick's discovery was instrumental in understanding the atomic nucleus, as neutrons are electrically neutral subatomic particles found in the nucleus alongside protons.
• Chadwick's work earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1935 for the discovery of the neutron.
• Neutrons play a crucial role in nuclear stability and are used in numerous applications, including nuclear reactors and medical imaging.
• The discovery of neutrons also led to significant advancements in nuclear physics, including the development of nuclear fission and the atomic bomb.

Additional Information

• Alpha Particles:
  • Alpha particles are positively charged particles consisting of two protons and two neutrons, essentially a helium nucleus.
  • They were used in Chadwick's experiments to bombard beryllium and release neutrons.
• Subatomic Particles:
  • The three main subatomic particles are protons (positive charge), neutrons (neutral), and electrons (negative charge).
  • Neutrons have a mass slightly greater than that of protons and are crucial for binding protons in the nucleus to overcome electrostatic repulsion.
• Nuclear Fission:
  • Neutrons are essential in nuclear fission, a process where the nucleus of an atom splits into smaller parts, releasing a large amount of energy.
  • This process is the basis for nuclear reactors and atomic bombs.
• James Chadwick's Legacy:
  • Chadwick's discovery paved the way for advancements in quantum mechanics and nuclear science.
  • The neutron's discovery also enabled the study of isotopes and neutron activation analysis, widely used in various scientific fields.