Neutron interactions

Neutron interactions involve neutrons, neutral particles inside an atom's nucleus, colliding with other atomic nuclei or particles. When a neutron hits a nucleus, it can cause the nucleus to become excited, split (fission), or produce new particles. These interactions are fundamental in nuclear reactors, where controlled neutron collisions sustain a chain reaction to generate energy. Neutrons can also be captured by nuclei, changing the element or isotope. Because neutrons have no electric charge, they can penetrate materials deeply, making their interactions crucial in nuclear physics, energy production, and radiation shielding.