Physics: Principles with Applications (7th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0-32162-592-7
ISBN 13: 978-0-32162-592-2

Chapter 31 - Nuclear Energy; Effects and Uses of Radiation - Questions - Page 909: 3

Answer

Neutrons are good for instigating nuclear reactions because they are electrically neutral, and relatively massive.

Work Step by Step

A massive particle can deliver a lot of energy to the nucleus. Using a neutral projectile makes things easier, because the projectile won’t have to overcome the electrical repulsion from the positively-charged nucleus.
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