The capture of free neutrons by heavy atomic nuclei is
A) easy because neutron capture always produces a stable product nucleus.
B) easy because the neutron has no electric charge.
C) difficult,unless the nucleus is already unstable.
D) difficult,unless the neutron is moving rapidly.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Neutrons have no electric charge, which means they are not repelled by the positively charged nucleus. This makes neutron capture relatively easy. The other answer choices are incorrect. A) Neutron capture does not always produce a stable product nucleus. B) The stability of the nucleus is not the primary factor in neutron capture. C) Neutron capture can occur with stable nuclei. D) The speed of the neutron may affect the probability of capture, but it is not necessary for capture to occur.

The Capture of Free Neutrons by Heavy Atomic Nuclei Is