Function of Neutron: Mass, Charge, Gravity?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the role of neutrons in an atom and their contribution to the strong nuclear force. Without neutrons, the universe would only have hydrogen atoms. It is also mentioned that both neutrons and protons contribute equally to the strong force between nucleons.
  • #1
nuby
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It seems strange that a neutron wouldn't have a function within an atom other than obtain mass, a neutral charge, and stick to protons. Do neutrons have more gravity than protons?
 
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  • #2
The neutron has a very important role in keeping the nucleus together. Neutrons contribute to the strong nuclear force (just like protons) that holds the nucleons (neutrons and protons) together against the electrostatic repulsion of the charge protons.
 
  • #3
Gokul43201 said:
The neutron has a very important role in keeping the nucleus together. Neutrons contribute to the strong nuclear force (just like protons) that holds the nucleons (neutrons and protons) together against the electrostatic repulsion of the charge protons.

To emphasize this point, without neutrons, the universe would not have any atoms except hydrogen.
 
  • #4
do neutrons and protons contribute an equal amount of strong force?
 
  • #5
Very crudely speaking, yes. The force between nucleons is actually a residual effect of the strong interaction, and has about the same strength for protons and neutrons.
 

Related to Function of Neutron: Mass, Charge, Gravity?

1. What is the mass of a neutron?

The mass of a neutron is approximately 1.675 × 10^-27 kilograms. It is slightly heavier than a proton, which has a mass of approximately 1.672 × 10^-27 kilograms.

2. Does a neutron have a charge?

No, neutrons do not have a charge. They are electrically neutral, meaning they have no positive or negative charge.

3. How does gravity affect neutrons?

Neutrons are affected by gravity in the same way as any other object with mass. They are attracted towards larger objects with more mass, such as planets and stars.

4. What is the role of neutrons in atoms?

Neutrons play a crucial role in atoms as they help to stabilize the nucleus by balancing out the positive charge of protons. This allows atoms to remain stable and not break apart.

5. Can neutrons decay?

Yes, neutrons can decay into a proton, electron, and anti-neutrino through a process called beta decay. This process occurs naturally and is essential for the stability of atoms.

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