Conceptual Physics (12th Edition)

Published by Addison-Wesley
ISBN 10: 0321909100
ISBN 13: 978-0-32190-910-7

Chapter 34 - Think and Explain - Page 654-655: 59

Answer

There is no critical mass for fusion.

Work Step by Step

Too much fissionable material in one place (above a "critical mass") can undergo a spontaneous chain reaction starting from just one ejected neutron. On the other hand, fusion fuel, much like chemical combustion, requires a high temperature to start the reaction. It is like combustible fuel, e.g., gasoline. It has no “critical mass,” and won't spontaneously ignite.
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