Neutronokat

Neutronokat is a term used in speculative physics to denote hypothetical bound states composed entirely of neutrons. In proposed models, a neutronokat would consist of N neutrons bound together by the residual strong interaction, forming a neutral, compact cluster whose mass is approximately N times the neutron mass. Because free neutrons do not form stable multi-neutron bound states in ordinary vacuum, neutronokat remain theoretical and their properties depend on the specifics of the nuclear interaction and the surrounding environment.

Theoretical descriptions allow a range of spin states and binding energies, with the possibility that binding becomes more favorable under extreme conditions. Many-body effects, meson exchange, and external pressure in dense matter could stabilize such clusters, at least transiently. Neutronokat are typically discussed in the context of dense neutron-rich matter, such as the inner crust of neutron stars, or in high-density phases created in heavy-ion collisions.

Experimental status is uncertain: there is no confirmed observation of a neutronokat in laboratory experiments, and existing scattering data place stringent limits on their existence under normal conditions. If they exist, neutronokat would affect the equation of state of dense matter, potentially altering neutron star mass-radius relations and neutrino transport in astrophysical environments.

See also: dineutron, tetraneutron, exotic nuclei, neutron star.