Determining the Probability of a Nuclear Fusion Reaction: Solve Here!

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion revolves around calculating the probability of a neutron initiating a nuclear fusion reaction at different speeds. A neutron traveling at 3.6×105 m/s has a 70% probability of initiating the reaction. Participants inquire about the relationship between neutron speed and cross-section, which affects the likelihood of fusion. The options provided for the probability at a lower speed of 2.2×105 m/s include 70%, 0%, 82%, and 56%.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of nuclear fusion and reaction probabilities
  • Knowledge of neutron speeds and their impact on reaction cross-sections
  • Familiarity with basic probability concepts
  • Ability to interpret scientific notation and units of measurement
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the relationship between neutron speed and nuclear reaction cross-sections
  • Study the principles of nuclear fusion and its probability calculations
  • Explore statistical methods for calculating probabilities in nuclear physics
  • Learn about different types of nuclear reactions and their characteristics
USEFUL FOR

Students studying nuclear physics, educators teaching about nuclear reactions, and researchers interested in fusion probabilities.

jim mcjimbers
Messages
2
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


In a particular nuclear reaction, a neutron moving at 3.6×105ms−1 has a 70% chance of initiating a nuclear fusion reaction. Which of the following options is a possible probability of a neutron moving at 2.2×105ms−1 initiating the same nuclear reaction?

I wouldn't be asking this if I really didn't know where to start. I don't even know which formula to use or how to begin solving this. Any help would be greatly appreciated, thanks!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Where are the options?
Are there any reactions where you know if the cross-section is higher or lower for higher/lower speeds?
 
mfb said:
Where are the options?
Are there any reactions where you know if the cross-section is higher or lower for higher/lower speeds?

Yeah, the options are
A) 70%
B) 0%
C) 82%
D) 56%
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
3K
  • Poll Poll
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
6K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
4K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K