If a nuclear reaction is operating at constant power the multiplication factor is

Electrical Engineering MCQ

If a nuclear reaction is operating at constant power the multiplication factor is:

  1. Greater than 1
  2. 1
  3. Less than 1
  4. Any of above

Correct answer: 2. 1

Explanation:

The multiplication factor, k, is mathematically defined as

k = number of neutrons in one generation/number of neutrons in preceding generation

  • If k is greater than 1, the chain reaction is supercritical, and the neutron population will grow exponentially.
  • If k is less than 1, the chain reaction is subcritical, and the neutron population will exponentially decay.
  • If k = 1, the chain reaction is critical and the neutron population will remain constant.

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