What are the differences between fissile and fissionable nuclei?

[TauDay]

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)

 

[Greg Bernhardt]

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