Question

Why is critical mass important for a fission chain reaction?
-keeps neutrons from escaping the sample.
-keeps neutrons from being absorbed by other isotopes.
-It allows neutrons to be absorbed by other fissionable nuclei
-it provides enough fuel to make enough energy.

Answers

Anonymous
-It allows neutrons to be absorbed by other fissionable nuclei
DrBob222
I disagree with the answer by anonymous. The correct answer, I think, is that it keep neutrons from escaping the sample. Too little sample (i.e., less than the critical mass) means the neutrons can get outside the sample without entering another fissionable atom so there is no chain reaction.

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