In the context of subatomic particles, what is a neutron?

A neutron is defined as a neutral particle, meaning it carries no electric charge. This characteristic is fundamental to its role in the atomic nucleus. Neutrons, alongside positively charged protons, make up the nucleus of an atom, contributing to the atomic mass and influencing the stability of the nucleus. The neutrality of neutrons allows them to act as a binding force within the nucleus, exerting strong nuclear forces that help hold the positively charged protons together, preventing the repulsive forces that arise from their like charges.

While some particles like protons are positively charged and electrons are negatively charged, neutrons do not have any electrical charge, which is central to their function in atomic structure. They also possess mass, although it is slightly less than that of protons. Therefore, identifying a neutron as a neutral particle is accurate and highlights its unique role among subatomic particles.