Multiple Choice
Which isotope has the highest nuclear binding energy per nucleon based on the given atomic masses: hydrogen-2 (2.014102 amu), helium-4 (4.002602 amu), and lithium-6 (6.0151228 amu)?
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21. Nuclear Chemistry
Nuclear Binding Energy
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Which of the following best describes the effect of supercritical mass on a nuclear reaction?
A
It leads to a self-sustaining chain reaction that rapidly increases the rate of fission.
B
It decreases the binding energy of the nucleus, making the reaction less likely.
C
It prevents any release of energy from the reaction.
D
It causes the nuclear reaction to stop due to neutron absorption.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of supercritical mass: It refers to a quantity of fissile material that is sufficient to sustain a chain reaction without any external neutron source.
Recall that in a nuclear fission reaction, neutrons released from one fission event can induce further fission events, creating a chain reaction.
Recognize that when the mass of fissile material is supercritical, the number of neutrons causing further fission exceeds the number lost, leading to an increasing rate of fission reactions.
Note that this self-sustaining chain reaction causes a rapid increase in energy release, as more and more nuclei undergo fission in a short time.
Conclude that the effect of supercritical mass is to enable a self-sustaining chain reaction that rapidly increases the rate of fission, rather than decreasing binding energy, preventing energy release, or stopping the reaction.
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