Which shape is likely to need more material for a critical mass,a cube or a sphere? Why?
A)a sphere because it has the greater surface area to volume ratio
B)a sphere because it has the smaller surface area to volume ratio
C)a cube because it has the greater surface area to volume ratio
D)a cube because it has the smaller surface area to volume ratio

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A critical mass refers to the minimum amount of a substance required to sustain a chain reaction. In this case, we can assume that the material is evenly distributed throughout the shape. The cube has a larger surface area to volume ratio as compared to the sphere. This means that more of its surface area is exposed to the surroundings, allowing for more opportunities for interaction and possible neutron absorption. Hence, more material is needed to achieve a critical mass in a cube than a sphere.

Which Shape Is Likely to Need More Material for a Critical