What are the differences between fissile and fissionable nuclei?

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the definitions of "fissile" and "fissionable" nuclei in the context of fission power reactors. A fissile nucleus can undergo fission upon capturing a thermal neutron, while a fissionable nucleus can undergo fission after capturing either a thermal or fast neutron. The conditions for a nucleus to be classified as fissile include having an odd mass number (A) when the atomic number (Z) is even, and Z must be greater than the atomic number of iron (Z(Fe)). In contrast, a nucleus is fissionable if its atomic number is greater than Z(Fe).

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Homework Statement



These questions refer to the terms “fissile” and “fissionable” as used in the context of current fission power reactors.

a) Describe what is meant if a nucleus is described as fissile; that is, define fissile.
Describe what is meant if a nucleus is described as fissionable; that is, define fissionable.

b) For a given nucleus, give the quantities and energy conditions that determine if the nucleus is fissile or fissionable.


Homework Equations



None.

The Attempt at a Solution



a) Fissile: Material that can undergo fission after capturing a thermal neutron. Fissionable: Material that can undergo fission after capturing a thermal or fast neutron.

b) Fissile: If A = Z + N is odd, given Z is even. And Z > Z(Fe)
Fissionable: If Z > Z(Fe)
 
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