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A thermal neutron having speed v impinges on a 235⋃ nucleus. The reaction cross-section is proportional to
  • a)
    v-1
  • b)
    v
  • c)
    √v
  • d)
    v-1/2
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?
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Understanding Neutron Interaction with Nuclei
When a thermal neutron collides with a nucleus, such as U-235, the likelihood of a reaction occurring is described by the reaction cross-section. This cross-section is influenced by various factors, one of which is the speed of the neutron.
Reaction Cross-Section and Speed
- The reaction cross-section (\( \sigma \)) can be thought of as an effective target area that quantifies the probability of a neutron interacting with a nucleus.
- As the speed (\( v \)) of the neutron increases, the rate at which it encounters the target nucleus also increases.
Dependence on Speed
The relationship between reaction cross-section and neutron speed can be derived from the kinetic theory of gases and the principles of nuclear physics.
- Proportionality to \( v^{-1} \): The reaction cross-section is inversely proportional to the speed of the neutron. This means that as the speed increases, the effective area for interaction decreases.
- Mathematically, this can be represented as:
\[
\sigma \propto \frac{1}{v}
\]
- This relationship arises because faster neutrons have shorter interaction times with the nucleus, reducing the chance of a successful reaction.
Conclusion
Thus, the correct answer to the question of how the reaction cross-section is proportional to the speed of a thermal neutron impinging on a U-235 nucleus is option A: \( v^{-1} \). Understanding this relationship is crucial in nuclear physics and applications like nuclear reactors and radiation shielding.
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A thermal neutron having speed v impinges on a235 nucleus. The reaction cross-section is proportional toa)v-1b)vc)√vd)v-1/2Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?
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