Chapter 14, Problem 14.96PAE

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

A set of nuclear reactions for the production of ²³³U from ²³²Th should be proposed.

Concept introduction:

²³²Th is a fertile material which does not undergoes fission reaction by itself. When it is bombarded by a fast moving neutron, it changes into fissile (fissionable material) and undergoes fission reaction to give ²³³U.

Solution:

${}^{232}Th{+}^{1}n{\to }^{233}Th{–}^0\beta {\to }^{233}Pa{–}^0\beta {\to }^{233}U$.