“Proton” And “Neutron” Demonstration
Product Code : EL-MM-10999
Quick answer: The Proton and Neutron Demonstration is a magnetic teaching aid that models why an atomic nucleus needs neutrons. Red-marked disc magnets act as protons and repel each other, while blue-marked browned iron discs act as neutrons and, placed between them, hold the group together. It works on a bench or an overhead projector. Lab Exports manufactures it in Delhi for schools, colleges and universities.
Specifications
| Part | Specification |
|---|---|
| Protons | Disc magnets, marked red |
| Neutrons | Browned iron discs, marked blue |
| Supplied as | Single pieces |
| Working surface | Flat bench or overhead projector |
How the model is used in teaching
Protons all carry a positive charge, so they repel one another. In a real nucleus this electrostatic repulsion is overcome by the strong nuclear force, and neutrons add to that attraction without adding more charge. This demonstration turns the idea into something students can see. The red 'protons' are magnets that push each other apart, so two of them will not stay together on their own, while the blue 'neutrons' are plain iron discs that every magnet attracts.
- Lay two red proton discs on the bench or on the glass of an overhead projector and push them towards each other; they slide apart.
- Place a blue neutron disc between them; both magnets are drawn to the iron and the three pieces stay together.
- Build larger groups with more pieces and link the result to the real trend: heavier nuclei need proportionally more neutrons than protons to stay stable.
- Take the neutrons away one at a time to show the group breaking apart, as an unstable nucleus would.
The model is an analogy: magnetism stands in for both the electric repulsion between protons and the short-range strong force that neutrons contribute. Teachers can use that difference to open a discussion of what the real forces are and why a nucleus with too few neutrons is unstable.
Key features
- Protons made from disc magnets that visibly repel each other
- Neutrons made from browned iron discs that are attracted to every proton
- Red and blue marking so protons and neutrons are easy to tell apart
- Works on a flat bench or on an overhead projector for whole-class viewing
- Supplied as single pieces
Documentation and supply
Most Lab Exports products carry a one-year manufacturer warranty.
Lab Exports manufactures the Proton and Neutron Demonstration at its works in Laxmi Nagar, Delhi, and supplies it to schools, colleges and universities in India and 60+ countries, handling the export documents for each shipment. More about the company is on the About Lab Exports page.
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The full range is in the Molecular Model section of the Chemistry Lab range.
Frequently asked questions
What does the proton and neutron demonstration show?
It shows the stabilising role of neutrons in the nucleus: the magnetic 'protons' repel one another, and placing iron 'neutrons' between them holds the group together.
Can it be used on an overhead projector?
Yes. The flat disc pieces work on a flat surface or on an overhead projector, so the whole class can watch the pieces repel and join.
What is the price of the Proton and Neutron Demonstration?
Prices are not published on the website. Add the Proton and Neutron Demonstration to the Enquiry Cart with the Add To Cart button on this page, or email [email protected] with the house code EL-MM-10999 and the quantity, to receive a quotation.
Does Lab Exports manufacture the Proton and Neutron Demonstration?
Yes. Lab Exports manufactures the Proton and Neutron Demonstration at its works at 11/315, Lalita Park, Laxmi Nagar, Delhi 110092, under house code EL-MM-10999.
Request a quote
Email [email protected] with the house code EL-MM-10999 and the quantity, or add the Proton and Neutron Demonstration to the Enquiry Cart with the Add To Cart button on this page. Tender buyers can also see the Tenders and OEM page.