An experimental nuclear physicist who, with Walther Bothe, investigated penetrating radiation produced by bombarding beryllium with alpha particles. Initially interpreted as gamma rays, the radiation motivated tests of the recoil it produced in other materials. James Chadwick's subsequent experiments identified the neutron, illustrating why observing penetrating radiation and correctly identifying its carrier were separate experimental steps.[ref]
The Existence of a Neutron by James Chadwick. Opening discussion of Bothe–Becker beryllium radiation and its interpretation
New to topics? Read the docs here!