Chapter 40, Problem 45A

To determine

Whether the three or pieces of same size of uranium would release more or less energy.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

The energy released in nuclear fission depends on the number of pieces. The more energy would produce for a greater number of pieces.

The three pieces of uranium produce more energy than the two pieces of the same size until the atomic number of the products is greater than the iron. The three pieces can initiate more number of fission reactions.

More mass of three pieces is available for energy release than two pieces, so more energy would release by the three pieces of uranium then two pieces of the same size.

Conclusion:

Thus, the three pieces of uranium release more energy than the two pieces of the same size because more mass of three pieces undergoes for change from mass to energy.