A sample is placed into a concentrated beam of neutrons. Through neutron-capture heavier nuclei become frequently unstable. This artificial radiation decays with a characteristic half-live consisting of alpha- and beta-particles and gamma-rays.

See Neutron Activation Analysis

Neutron radiation is one type of ionizing radiation. Neutrons get emitted from an atom by the fission process or by decay processes. In the upper atmosphere neutron radiation is produced by the interaction of cosmic radiation with air. Neutron radiation is used for the production of medical isotopes and certain direct medical therapies.

See also Neutron Activation, Neutron Activation Analysis and Neutron Capture.

Slow neutrons have a speed of around 2.2 km/s (0.025 eV). They could be generated in a reactor and could lead, because of their much larger effective neutron absorption cross-section than quick neutrons, to neutron activation.

See also Neutron Activation, Neutron Activation Analysis, Neutron Capture and Neutron Radiation.