A free neutron, also known as an unbound neutron, is a subatomic particle with no electrical charge and a mass slightly greater than that of a proton. It is unstable and has a half-life of around 10 minutes, decaying into a proton, electron, and antineutrino through the weak nuclear force. There are some synonyms for free neutron, such as "neutral neutron," "uncharged neutron," and "isolated neutron." These terms are often used interchangeably to refer to the same particle, emphasizing its lack of electrical charge and its existence outside the atomic nucleus. While a free neutron may not be stable on its own, it is crucial in many nuclear reactions and is essential for the functioning of nuclear power plants and nuclear weapons. Its discovery in the early 1930s marked a significant breakthrough in our understanding of the nature of matter and the forces that govern its behavior.