Chapter 20, Problem 29R

To determine

To Choose: The correct option.

Answer to Problem 29R

Option B: Chain reaction

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Nuclear fission is the process of splitting a nucleus (parent nucleus) into two or more smaller nuclei (daughter nuclei). This can be done by bombarding the large parent nucleus with neutrons.

In the given figure, the first step is the bombardment of a neutron with a nucleus which undergoes a nuclear fission (see following figure).

The products of a fission reaction usually include several neutrons in addition to daughter nuclei. This neutrons can strike other nuclei in the sample and cause them to split as well. These reactions then produce more neutrons causing additional nuclei to split. Hence a chain reaction is set up (see following figure).

So a chain reaction is a series of repeated fission reactions caused by release of additional neutrons in every fission step as shown in the figure.

Conclusion:

Thus, option B is correct.