IB Physics SL E.4.2 Chain Reactions

Practise explaining self-sustaining fission through neutron multiplication and determining whether a system is subcritical, critical or supercritical from losses and reproduction.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Objective
Level
SL

Exam points

  • track how neutrons from one fission trigger later fissions while some are absorbed or escape
  • classify a chain reaction as critical when one effective neutron per fission causes the next event
  • explain control by changing neutron absorption rather than changing energy released per individual fission

E.4.2—Chain reactions question 1

[Maximum number: 3]

This question is about nuclear power production.

Outline the reason why fuel enrichment is necessary for the fuel used in a commercial nuclear reactor.

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