Why was it more difficult to design an experiment that would prove the existence of neutrons than it was to design an experiment that would prove the existence of either protons or electrons?
A) Neutrons are smaller than either protons or electrons, so their presence is much more difficult to detect.
B) Because neutrons are 1840 times heavier than protons, they are difficult to separate, and therefore, to count.
C) Neutrons do not deflect charged particles.
D) The similarity of the magnetic and electrical properties of protons and neutrons made them experimentally indistinguishable.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Neutrons do not deflect charged particles, which makes their presence more difficult to detect in experiments that rely on particle deflection, such as those used to detect the presence of electrons or protons. The other options are not accurate reasons for why it is more difficult to design an experiment to prove the existence of neutrons.

Why Was It More Difficult to Design an Experiment That