Multiple Choice Questions on Nuclear Fission

Multiple choice questions on nuclear fission at the level expected from you will be simple. Here are three such questions:

(1)The energy released per fission of a U²³⁵ nucleus is around

(a) 0.02 eV

(b) 2 eV

(c) 2 MeV

(d) 20 MeV

(e) 200 MeV

The mass of the products of fission will be less than the mass of the U²³⁵ nucleus. The mass difference gets converted into energy. Even though different fragments can be produced, the energy released per fission of a U²³⁵ nucleus is around 200 MeV.

(2) From the following, pick out the most suitable energy of neutrons which will produce nuclear fission in a reactor

(a) 0.04 eV

(b) 40 eV

(c) 400 eV

(d) 2 MeV

(e) 20 MeV

Nuclear fission is induced most effectively by neutrons of thermal energy and hence the correct option is 0.04 eV

(3) The function of the moderator in a nuclear reactor is

(a) to absorb fast neutrons

(b) to adjust the power output to moderate levels

(c) to slow down fast neutrons

(d) to absorb slow neutrons

(e) to cool the reactor core

This is a simple question which repeatedly appears in entrance test papers with minor changes in the wrong options. The moderator is used to slow down fast neutrons to thermal energies [Option (c)].

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You can find some useful multiple choice questions (with solution) from nuclear physics at physicsplus