= Slow neutron
A slow <neutron> has low <kinetic energy> relative to the fast <neutrons> commonly emitted in <nuclear reactions>. The term covers an <energy> range, rather than a single <speed>. A <neutron moderator> transfers <kinetic energy> to surrounding matter through collisions. Slowing a <neutron> can increase its chance of causing particular <neutron capture> reactions, even though each collision has reduced its <kinetic energy>. The <Fermi slow-neutron activation experiment> made this surprising distinction experimentally visible.
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