A fission reaction in which more neutrons are given off than are needed to initiate the reaction is called
A) a critical reaction.
B) a chain reaction.
C) a fusion reaction.
D) a neutron catastrophe.
E) a chemical reaction.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A chain reaction occurs when the neutrons released by the fission of an atom cause further fission reactions, producing more neutrons that can continue the process. This results in a self-sustaining chain reaction, which can lead to an explosion in nuclear weapons or a controlled release of energy in nuclear power plants. The term "critical reaction" refers to a fission reaction that is sustained at a constant rate, while fusion reactions involve the merging of atomic nuclei rather than their splitting. "Neutron catastrophe" is not a recognized scientific term. "Chemical reactions" involve the breaking and forming of chemical bonds, rather than nuclear reactions.

A Fission Reaction in Which More Neutrons Are Given Off