Which of the following is not a characteristic of a neutron?

The statement that a neutron has no charge is accurate and reflects a fundamental characteristic of neutrons. Neutrons are subatomic particles found within the atomic nucleus alongside protons. Unlike protons, which carry a positive charge, and electrons, which have a negative charge, neutrons are electrically neutral. This neutrality is crucial in the stability of atomic structures, as it allows neutrons to contribute to the mass of the nucleus without affecting its overall charge. Their presence helps hold protons together within the nucleus, counteracting the repulsive forces between the positively charged protons.

In summary, neutrons indeed have mass as they contribute to the atomic mass, and they are essential components of an atomic nucleus. However, they do not carry a negative charge, making the assertion that they have a charge wrong. This clarity helps reinforce the understanding of atomic structure and the behavior of subatomic particles.