neutronvangst

Neutron capture is a nuclear reaction in which the nucleus of an atom absorbs one or more neutrons. This process typically results in the formation of a heavier isotope of the same element. The absorbed neutron increases the atomic mass of the nucleus by one. If the resulting isotope is unstable, it may undergo radioactive decay, often emitting beta particles or gamma rays.

The probability of neutron capture is described by the neutron capture cross-section, a measure of how likely a nucleus is to capture a neutron. This cross-section varies significantly between different isotopes and with the energy of the incident neutrons. Slow neutrons, also known as thermal neutrons, generally have a higher probability of capture than fast neutrons.

Neutron capture is a fundamental process in nuclear physics and astrophysics. In nuclear reactors, it is responsible for the production of many transuranic elements and can lead to changes in the isotopic composition of nuclear fuel. In stars, particularly during the s-process (slow neutron capture process), neutron capture is a primary mechanism for the nucleosynthesis of elements heavier than iron. The r-process (rapid neutron capture process), occurring in more energetic environments like supernovae, also relies on rapid neutron capture to form very heavy elements.