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Neutrinos
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Nearly massless neutral particles from beta decay.
Almost massless neutral leptons emitted in beta decay; they interact so weakly that trillions pass through you each second. Three flavours oscillate, implying mass.
Detected in giant tanks like Super-Kamiokande.
Solar neutrinos confirm fusion.
In more detail
Neutrinos are nearly massless, electrically neutral particles produced in beta decay and nuclear reactions. They interact very weakly, passing through matter almost unhindered.
Real-world uses
- Neutrino detectors in mines and underground labs study solar and supernova neutrinos.
- Neutrino observations test models of the Sun and stars.
- Astronomers detect neutrinos from the Sun and supernovae in large underground detectors.
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Frequently asked questions
Why are neutrinos hard to detect?
They interact so weakly that trillions pass through a person every second without any effect.
Do neutrinos have mass?
Yes, a very small mass, shown by neutrino oscillations.
Why are neutrinos so hard to detect?
They interact only weakly with matter, so most pass straight through the Earth without being seen.
Related topics in Atomic & Nuclear Physics
Fusion in stars · Fusion reactors · Neutron discovery · Radiation detection · Interaction of radiation with matter · Radiation units