The smallest amount of radioactive material that will support a self-sustained reaction is called the
A) moderator.
B) critical mass.
C) molar mass.
D) supercritical mass.
E) subcritical mass.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The term "critical mass" refers to the smallest amount of radioactive material that will support a self-sustained reaction. Once this amount is reached, the reaction becomes self-sustaining, meaning that the neutrons released by the radioactive decay of the material will go on to split other atoms in the material, releasing more neutrons and continuing the chain reaction. If the amount of material is less than the critical mass, there will not be enough neutrons to sustain the reaction, and it will eventually die out.

The Smallest Amount of Radioactive Material That Will Support a Self-Sustained