Eli5: how do neutron reflectors work?

Question

I understand the purpose of a neutron reflector in nuclear physics, but not what makes a material reflect neutrons, or how reflection actually works. On a connected note, how does a neutron moderator differ from a reflector?

In: 1

Answer 1

I can’t answer it all, but neutron reflection works by repeated scattering, in much the same way that light scatters in snow or clouds. Much of it comes out on the same side it entered, but in random directions. Some goes through, and some is absorbed.