Neutron Emission
The direct ejection of a neutron from an extremely neutron-rich nucleus.
Formula / equation
ᴬ_Z X → ᴬ⁻¹_Z X + ¹₀n
Unit
MeV
In depth
Neutron emission occurs only in nuclei far outside the band of stability, usually immediately after a beta decay leaves the daughter highly excited. Because these delayed neutrons appear seconds after fission rather than instantly, they make reactor control mechanically possible.
Examples in the real world
Delayed neutrons from bromine-87 and iodine-137 giving reactor operators time to move control rods.