In Fission Bombs, a Certain "Critical Mass" Is Needed Because

question 19

Multiple Choice

In fission bombs, a certain "critical mass" is needed because

• A) the fissionable material will not reach a sufficiently high temperature unless this much material is present.
• B) too small an amount of uranium will not hold together throughout the reaction, and thus the uranium falls apart and the reaction goes out before it is completed.
• C) for smaller masses the pressure is so low that neutrons move too slowly through the uranium to sustain a chain reaction.
• D) if the mass is too small, too many neutrons pass through the uranium and out the sides without hitting a nucleus.
• E) it is impossible to fission a uranium nucleus unless it is near a large number of other uranium nuclei.

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Definitions:

Benzaldehyde

An organic compound characterized by a benzene ring with an aldehyde functional group, known for its almond-like aroma and used in flavoring and perfume.

Methylamine

A simple organic compound with the formula CH3NH2, characterized by a strong ammonia-like odor, used in the production of pesticides and pharmaceuticals.

Reagents

Substances or compounds added to a system to cause a chemical reaction or are used to test for the presence of another substance.

Reaction

A process in which one or more substances (the reactants) undergo a transformation to form new substances (the products).