Critical fission energy question

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the fissility of the nucleus (A)Z based on its mass and the critical fission energy of the nucleus (A+1)Z. It emphasizes the importance of calculating the mass-energy difference using the equation E = m(n) + m(A) - m(A+1) c² to assess whether (A)Z is fissile. Additionally, it highlights the role of binding energy in evaluating the conditions under which fission may occur, particularly at specific neutron energies. The calculation of the mass-energy difference between U-235 and U-236 is also mentioned as a practical example.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of nuclear physics concepts, particularly fission and fissility.
  • Familiarity with mass-energy equivalence and the equation E = mc².
  • Knowledge of binding energy and its significance in nuclear reactions.
  • Basic skills in calculating mass-energy differences for nuclear reactions.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the concept of critical fission energy in detail.
  • Learn how to calculate binding energy for various isotopes.
  • Research neutron-induced fission and its energy requirements.
  • Explore the mass-energy difference calculations for other isotopes beyond U-235 and U-236.
USEFUL FOR

Students preparing for nuclear physics exams, researchers in nuclear energy, and professionals involved in nuclear reactor design and safety assessments.

andybham
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I have a fission exam next week, can someone help me with this past paper question:

If you know the masses of two nuclei (A)Z and (A+1)Z, (say masses are (A) and (A+1)) and you know the 'critical fission energy' of (A+1)Z, how do you determine if (A)Z is fissile? if it is not fissile, at what neutron energy would you expect fission to be possible.
 
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How about comparing the binding energy of the compound nucleus (A+1)Z with the critical energy?
 
is this done by calculating the separation energy? E = m(n) + m(A) - m(A+1)
 
http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/nucene/nucbin.html

E = (m(n) + m(A) - m(A+1)) c2
yes - it is the mass-energy difference between the reactants and product(s). The energy is released as prompt gamma or as the kinetic energy if there are two or more products.

Calculate the mass-energy difference between U235+n and U236.
 

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