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 - Misconceptual Questions - Page 910: 15

Answer

Choice B.

Work Step by Step

In the Pu, each fission releases more neutrons than in the U. Having these additional neutrons released makes it more likely that an additional fission reaction will be initiated, sustaining a chain reaction. The critical mass needed for a chain reaction is smaller in Pu.
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