When did James Chadwick prove the existence of the neutron – an elementary particle devoid of any electric charge?

The correct answer is 1932.

Key Points

• James Chadwick, an English physicist, proved the existence of the neutron in 1932.
• His discovery of the neutron was a significant breakthrough in nuclear physics.
• Chadwick's experiment involved bombarding beryllium with alpha particles, which resulted in the emission of a new type of radiation.
• This new radiation was later identified as being composed of neutrons, particles with no electric charge.
• Chadwick was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1935 for his discovery of the neutron.

Additional Information

• Neutron:
  • A neutron is a subatomic particle found in the nucleus of an atom.
  • It has no electric charge and a mass slightly greater than that of a proton.
  • Neutrons play a crucial role in the stability of atomic nuclei.
• Alpha particles:
  • Alpha particles are a type of ionizing radiation ejected by certain radioactive materials.
  • They consist of two protons and two neutrons bound together.
  • Alpha particles are relatively heavy and positively charged.
• Nobel Prize in Physics:
  • It is one of the most prestigious awards in the field of physics.
  • James Chadwick received this honor in 1935 for his discovery of the neutron.
  • The Nobel Prize in Physics recognizes outstanding contributions to the field of physics.
• Nuclear Physics:
  • It is a branch of physics that studies the constituents and interactions of atomic nuclei.
  • The discovery of the neutron was a major milestone in nuclear physics.
  • Nuclear physics has applications in various fields, including energy production and medical imaging.