I Fission vs Cluster Decay: What is the Difference?

  • Thread starter Thread starter snorkack
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Fission
Click For Summary
Fission is defined as the process where a fissionable isotope absorbs a neutron and splits into two smaller nuclides along with additional particles. Isotopes that can undergo fission with fast neutrons are classified as fissionable, while Be-9 is not considered fissionable. The distinction between fission and cluster decay is debated, particularly among nuclear engineers, with some arguing that certain fusion reactions should be classified as fission. The speed of the neutron does not solely determine whether a nuclide is fissionable. Ultimately, the classification hinges on specific definitions within nuclear physics.
snorkack
Messages
2,388
Reaction score
536
What is defined as "fission"?
Isotopes that undergo "fission" under influence of fast neutrons, though not slow neutrons, are classified as "fissionable". Is Be-9 fissionable?
What is the dividing line between "fission" and "cluster decay"?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
I have a group of nuclear engineering friends, and there is always rivalry between the fission folks and the fusion folks. The fission folks are fond of pointing out that the much studied aneutronic fusion reaction p+B11->3α should really be considered fission!
 
Speed of neutron does not define fissionable. Fissionable usually refers to a nuclide absorbing a neutron and splitting up in (usually) two smaller nuclides plus debris (neutrons, etc.). Be-9 is not fissionable.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cluster_decay
 
mathman said:
Fissionable usually refers to a nuclide absorbing a neutron and splitting up in (usually) two smaller nuclides plus debris (neutrons, etc.). Be-9 is not fissionable.
Be-9+n=2α+2n
Common reaction. Is it fission?
 
snorkack said:
Be-9+n=2α+2n
Common reaction. Is it fission?
It is a matter of definition.
 

Thread 'Some words on neutrino physics?'

Hi everyone, I am doing a final project on the title " fundamentals of neutrino physics". I wanted to raise some issues with neutrino which makes it the possible way to the physics beyond standard model. I am myself doing some research on these topics but at some points the math bugs me out. Anyway, i have some questions which answers themselves confounded me due to the complicated math. Some pf them are: 1. Why wouldn't there be a mirror image of a neutrino? Is it because they are...
View full post »

Similar threads

I Questions about the energy released by nuclear fission
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
I Nuclear Fission of Uranium-235
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
I Some Specific Questions Regarding Nuclides
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K
I Energy reduction/deflection of beta particles due to isotope geometry
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
I Binding energy, fusion and fission
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
I Why is Proton Radiation this Rare in Nuclear Fission Decay?
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
3K
I Fissionable elements for Fission
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
B Is α-Decay the Same as Nuclear Fission? Understanding the Difference
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
I Fissionable and Fissile materials
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
I Limitations of fission decay paths
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K