Question

Which of the following are the correct statements regarding discovery of neutrons?

• A. alpha particle were bombarded on beryllium foil to emit neutron and form carbon
• B. The particles produced show deflection in presence of magnetic field.
• C. Paraffin wax wall is used to absorb neutrons
• D. alpha particle were bombarded on beryllium foil to emit neutron and form oxygen

Answer 1

Answer: (A), (C)

Paraffin wax wall is used to absorb neutrons

This experiment was used in discovery of neutrons by bombarding alpha particles over beryllium foil which emits particles having a mass slightly greater than the protons and carbon ($C^{12}$). Paraffin wax was used to absorb neutrons as they have a very short half- life and decay into a proton and an electron.