Schematic view of the neutron capture process by a nucleus.
University of Oregon

The Neutron Capture Process

Neutron capture can occur when a neutron approaches a nucleus close enough for nuclear forces to be effective. The neutron is captured and forms a heavier isotope of the capturing element.

When the new isotope is unstable the neutron decays into a proton (beta decay)) with the emission of an electron and of a neutrino. The following movies illustrate two neutron capture processes and subsequent element transmutation.


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