Question

What is the function of the neutrons in the nucleus?

Answer 1

The primary function of the neutrons in the nucleus of an atom is to contribute to the binding energy (or nuclear glue) that holds the nucleus itself together. This can be understood as follows:

An atomic nucleus is made of protons and neutrons. Protons present in the nucleus are positively charged. The neutrons bear no charge and hence, prevent electrostatic repulsions between the protons. This leads to an overall mass−deficit of the nucleus. The deficiency in mass arises due to the fact that in this process of avoiding repulsions, some of the mass gets converted into binding energy.