Why doesnt neutron scattering violate charge conservation?

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies that the reaction p + n -> p + n + ∏^- does not violate charge conservation because the pion (∏^-) is not part of the final state of the system. Instead, the correct interpretation is that the reaction simplifies to p + n -> n + p, which conserves charge. Additionally, the process can be viewed as two separate interactions: n -> p + ∏^- and p + ∏^- -> n, both of which also adhere to charge conservation principles.

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rwooduk
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p + n -> p + n + ∏^-

check charge conservation:

+ 1 + 0 = +1 + 0 -1

it doesn't equal so it wouldn't be possible? please could someone suggest why this is, or if I'm doing something wrong?

thanks in advance.

edit is it because the pion is the force carrier therefore should not be included in the reaction and check above?
 
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No it's because the pion is absorbed on the right hand side and is not part of the final configuration.

You just have p + n -> n + p which conserves charge

Or you can split it into two interactions:

n -> p + \pi- and then p + \pi- -> n

both of which conserve charge
 
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kjhskj75 said:
No it's because the pion is absorbed on the right hand side and is not part of the final configuration.

You just have p + n -> n + p which conserves charge

Or you can split it into two interactions:

n -> p + \pi- and then p + \pi- -> n

both of which conserve charge

explains it perfectly, many thanks!
 

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