Physics, Techniques and ProceduresChain reaction
self-sustaining, exothermic
nuclear reaction (process which liberates thermal energy).
Nuclear chain reactions occur in
nuclear reactors as well as the atomic bomb. The commonly used
isotope for this type of
nuclear reaction is uranium-235, which undergoes
nuclear fission into two smaller constituents and three neutrons which themselves can induce fission of other U-235 nuclei after proper moderation (slowing down) (
Fig.1). From the figure it is apparent, that the reaction is sustained, when in the average one neutron stemming from the fission reaction reacts with another U-235 nucleus.
GvS
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Schematic representation of a chain reaction occuring in nuclear fission.
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Chain reaction, Fig.1 | |