Convert Neutron Mass (mₙ) to Poundal (pdl) instantly.
About these units
Neutron Mass (mₙ)
The neutron is slightly heavier than the proton, with a mass of 1.67492749804 × 10⁻²⁷ kilograms. This subtle difference has profound implications: it allows neutrons to undergo beta decay outside the nucleus, transforming into protons, electrons, and antineutrinos. Neutrons play a crucial role in nuclear reactions, especially in reactors and stars. Their ability to penetrate atomic nuclei (due to lack of electric charge) makes them highly effective in initiating fission or fusion processes. The neutron mass helps determine nuclear binding energy and isotopic stability, shaping the entire periodic table.
Poundal (pdl)
The poundal is the unit of force in the foot–pound–second (FPS) system, defined as the force that accelerates a one-pound mass at one foot per second squared. Although a force unit, it interacts with mass units in engineering contexts similarly to inertial mass units. Historically, poundals appeared in older physics textbooks and engineering references before the widespread adoption of SI units. Their use has declined dramatically, but they remain part of the history of classical mechanics education. The poundal exemplifies how many different systems attempted to rationalize force, mass, and acceleration before the international community converged on the SI newton.