Chapter 8.2, Problem 11R

To determine

The reason of the occurrence of the chain reaction due to fission of Uranium-235.

Answer to Problem 11R

The chain reaction takes place due to the neutron produced in the fission of the Uranium-235 atom.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

The process of the disintegration of the heavy nucleolus of the radioactive metal into small metal is called nuclear fission. In this process some free neutrons and thermal energy also produces.

The nuclear fission reaction of Uranium-235 is given as,

${}^1{n}_0{+}^{235}{U}_{92}{\to }^{141}B{a}_{56}{+}^{92}K{r}_{36}+3\left({}^1{n}_0\right)$

Uranium-235 converts into two metals Barium. (Ba-141), Krypton (Kr-92) and three neutrons also produce in the reaction. These three neutrons further break nucleolus of the other three Uranium-235 atoms. These three Uranium-235 atoms further produce nine neutrons. The process remains in the continuation and the chain of the fission establishes.

The chain reaction occurs due to the neutrons produces in the fission of the Uranium-235.

Conclusion:

Thus, the chain reaction takes place due to the neutron produced in the fission of Uranium-235 atom.