Chapter 31, Problem 12Q

To determine

Why must the fission process release neutrons if it is to be useful?

Answer to Problem 12Q

Solution:

A nuclear reaction must release neutrons to be useful to sustain the chain reaction. If the neutrons are not released during the course of reaction, the nuclear fuel will not undergo further fission and the nuclear reaction will stop.

Explanation of Solution

Nuclear fission is a process in which a big nucleus breaks into two smaller nuclei with the liberation of large amount of energy and more neutrons. Nuclear fission occurs when a slow moving neutron hits a big nucleus. The neutrons released during the reaction cause the fission of other nuclei (of nuclear fuel like uranium). Thus, a chain reaction occurs and this reaction is self- sustaining as it does not require the external neutrons. Thus, the fission process must release neutrons to be self-sustaining. Otherwise the reaction will stop.