Thermal Neutron
Key Stage 4
Meaning
A thermal neutron is a neutron which is moving slow enough that it can be captured by a nucleus.
About Thermal Neutrons
- Thermal neutrons are named as such because they have the same kinetic energy as molecules in the air at room temperature.
- Neutrons released during nuclear fission are too fast moving to be captured by nuclei so they must be slowed by a moderator to become thermal neutrons.