Chadwick's discovery of the neutron

In 1932, British physicist James Chadwick discovered the neutron, a particle found in atomic nuclei alongside protons. Before this, scientists understood protons but couldn't explain certain atomic masses and properties. Chadwick conducted experiments by bombarding beryllium with alpha particles, observing that it emitted an uncharged radiation capable of knocking protons out of hydrogen. He concluded this radiation was composed of neutrons, which have no electrical charge. This discovery was significant because it fulfilled the understanding of atomic structure, leading to advancements in nuclear physics and the development of technologies such as nuclear power and medicine.