Induced fission (AQA A-Level Physics): Flashcards

Large nucleus absorbs neutron, splits, releases neutrons & energy

Low kinetic energy neutrons, easily absorbed by $^{235}$U

Released neutrons trigger further fission events

Minimum fissile material needed for self-sustaining chain reaction

Slows neutrons to thermal speeds via elastic collisions

Water and graphite

Absorb neutrons to control chain reaction rate

Boron and cadmium

Transfers fission heat to generate steam for turbines

Around $200$ MeV