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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