Final answer:
In paraffin wax, neutrons can scatter off atoms, transferring energy to the atoms and causing them to vibrate or move. Paraffin wax is not a very effective neutron absorber, compared to materials like water or concrete with moisture. Neutrons can also be involved in nuclear reactions or fission, where they can cause reactions or split atomic nuclei, releasing more neutrons and energy.
Step-by-step explanation:
Neutrons have high penetrating power and can knock down protons in an atom. However, in paraffin wax, neutrons do not replace the protons. Instead, they can collide with the atoms in the wax and transfer some of their kinetic energy to the atoms, causing them to vibrate or move. This process is known as scattering. While paraffin wax is not a very effective neutron absorber, materials like water or concrete with moisture are better at stopping neutrons.
A similar process occurs when neutrons are used in nuclear reactions or in fission. Neutrons can collide with atomic nuclei, causing nuclear reactions or splitting the nuclei into smaller fragments. This can release more neutrons and energy, leading to a chain reaction.