Do photons interact with neutrons?

In summary, photons can interact with neutrons through processes such as scattering, absorption, and emission. This interaction occurs through the electromagnetic force, which can change the behavior of neutrons. There are practical applications of this interaction in fields such as medical imaging and nuclear reactors. Furthermore, photons can be used to indirectly detect neutrons through a process called neutron activation.
  • #1
exmarine
241
11
Quick question:
photons do not interact with other photons
photons do interact with electrons
photons do interact with protons (I think)
so do they intereact with neutrons?
How could you tell, if the energy state of the neutron changed from absorbing a photon?
 
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  • #2
Photons are the particles that are interchanged in electromagnetic interactions.
Neutrons are electrically neutral and do not interact electromagnetically.
 
  • #3
CompuChip said:
Neutrons are electrically neutral

However, they are made up of quarks which individually are charged. The neutron as a whole has a magnetic dipole moment and can interact with a magnetic field.
 

1. Do photons interact with neutrons?

Yes, photons can interact with neutrons. This interaction can occur through different processes such as scattering, absorption, and emission.

2. How do photons interact with neutrons?

Photons interact with neutrons through the electromagnetic force. This force is responsible for the attraction or repulsion between charged particles, such as photons and neutrons.

3. Can photons change the behavior of neutrons?

Yes, photons can change the behavior of neutrons through interactions such as scattering. When a photon scatters off a neutron, it transfers energy and momentum to the neutron, causing it to change direction and possibly its behavior.

4. Are there any practical applications of photons interacting with neutrons?

Yes, there are practical applications of photons interacting with neutrons. This interaction is used in various fields such as medical imaging, nuclear reactors, and neutron scattering experiments.

5. Can photons be used to detect neutrons?

Yes, photons can be used to detect neutrons. This is done through a process called neutron activation, where a photon is emitted when a neutron interacts with a material. By detecting these photons, we can indirectly detect the presence of neutrons.

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