slow neutron
noun Physics.
a neutron with low kinetic energy, especially one slowed by the moderator in a nuclear reactor.
Also called
thermal neutron.
Origin of slow neutron
First recorded in 1930–35
OTHER WORDS FROM slow neutron
slow-neu·tron, adjectiveWords nearby slow neutron
slow infection,
slow loris,
slow march,
slow match,
slow motion,
slow neutron,
slow on the uptake,
slow spot,
slow time,
slow up,
slow virus
British Dictionary definitions for slow neutron
slow neutron
noun
physics
a neutron having a kinetic energy of less than 100 electronvolts
Scientific definitions for slow neutron
slow neutron
[ slō ]
A neutron that is in thermal equilibrium with the surrounding medium, especially one produced by fission in a nuclear reactor, and slowed by a moderator. The uranium 235 used in thermal nuclear reactors undergoes fission more readily when struck by slow neutrons than when struck by the fast neutrons released by fission. Also called thermal neutron Compare fast neutron.