Definition
The neutron is one of the fundamental constituents of the atomic nucleus, together with the proton. Inside the nucleus, it is confined by the strong nuclear interaction.
When free, a neutron is a quantum particle that exhibits both wave-like and particle-like properties.
Quantum Nature
🌊 Wave Description
A neutron is characterized by a wavelength λ.
⚛️ Particle Description
As a particle, the neutron is described by its momentum p, kinetic energy E, velocity v, and wave vector k.
Fundamental Relations
Physical Constants
🔹 Neutron Mass
mn ≃ 1.675 × 10-27 kg
≃ 939.565 MeV/c²
🔹 Planck Constant
h ≃ 6.626 × 10-34 J·s
≃ 4.136 × 10-15 eV·s
🧲 Spin
The neutron has a
magnetic spin
|s| = 1/2
Quantum Interpretation
The probability of finding a neutron in space is described by the wave associated with it.
⚛️ During observation
When the neutron interacts with matter, it is observed as a localized particle carrying its kinetic energy.