neutrals

Neutrals is a term used to describe entities characterized by neutrality, or the absence of a distinguishing attribute in a given context. In science, a neutral particle or atom has no net electric charge: the number of protons equals the number of electrons. Neutralization is a chemical reaction in which an acid and a base react to form water and a salt. In materials science, charge neutrality can influence the behavior of plasmas and solid-state systems.

In color theory, neutral colors are desaturated tones that do not appear on the color wheel: black, white, gray, and various browns, beiges, and taupes. They are used to balance brighter colors and to create versatile, understated palettes in design and photography.

In politics and international relations, neutrals are states that do not participate in military alliances or conflicts. Neutrality can be a formal policy, recognized by international law, and may require refraining from aiding belligerents or hosting troops from warring parties.

In electrical engineering, the neutral conductor provides the return path for current in many alternating current systems and is generally bonded to earth at a single point to stabilize voltages and safety. The earth ground is a separate reference point, though in some configurations neutral and ground may be connected at the main service panel.

In linguistics or social discourse, neutrality refers to impartial language that avoids endorsement or bias.