Neutron Examples in Chemistry

Start with the recap, study the fully worked examples, then use the practice problems to check your understanding of Neutron.

This page combines explanation, solved examples, and follow-up practice so you can move from recognition to confident problem-solving in Chemistry.

Concept Recap

A neutral subatomic particle found in the nucleus of an atom that has no electric charge but contributes to the atom's mass.

The glue that helps hold the nucleus together without adding charge.

Read the full concept explanation โ†’

How to Use These Examples

  • Read the first worked example with the solution open so the structure is clear.
  • Try the practice problems before revealing each solution.
  • Use the related concepts and background knowledge badges if you feel stuck.

What to Focus On

Core idea: Different numbers of neutrons create isotopes of the same element.

Common stuck point: Changing the neutron count changes the isotope but not the element โ€” the proton count is what defines the element.

Worked Examples

Example 1

easy
An atom of sodium has a mass number of 23 and an atomic number of 11. How many neutrons does it contain?

Solution

  1. 1
    Recall that the mass number A equals the total number of protons plus neutrons: A = Z + N.
  2. 2
    Rearrange to find the neutron count: N = A - Z.
  3. 3
    Substitute: N = 23 - 11 = 12 neutrons.

Answer

12\text{ neutrons}
Neutrons contribute to the mass of an atom but not its charge. The mass number is the total count of protons plus neutrons in the nucleus.

Example 2

medium
Explain why neutrons are important for nuclear stability. Why do heavier elements tend to have more neutrons than protons?

Practice Problems

Try these problems on your own first, then open the solution to compare your method.

Example 1

easy
Calculate the number of neutrons in {}^{56}_{26}\text{Fe}.

Example 2

medium
Two atoms each have 17 protons. One has 18 neutrons and the other has 20 neutrons. Are they different elements or isotopes?

Related Concepts

Background Knowledge

These ideas may be useful before you work through the harder examples.

atom