Chain reaction
Definition
A chain reaction is a self-sustaining series of nuclear fission reactions in which the products of one reaction trigger subsequent reactions. It releases an enormous amount of energy and is used in nuclear power plants and atomic bombs.
Analogy
Imagine a line of dominoes set up in such a way that when you knock down the first domino, it triggers a cascade effect where each falling domino knocks down the next one. Similarly, in a chain reaction, each fission event triggers more fission events, releasing an increasing amount of energy.
Related terms
Neutron: A subatomic particle with no charge found within the nucleus of an atom. In nuclear reactions, neutrons are responsible for initiating and sustaining chain reactions.
Critical Mass: The minimum amount of fissile material required to sustain a self-sustaining chain reaction.
Radioactive Decay: The spontaneous breakdown or disintegration of atomic nuclei over time, resulting in the release of radiation.
"Chain reaction" appears in:
Study guides (1)
Resources
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.