Question

Plutonium nucleus undergoes fission with:

• A. Fast neutrons
• B. Slow neutrons
• C. Fast deuterons
• D. Slow deuterons
• E. Fast \( \alpha \)-particles

Hint:

Plutonium undergoes fission when it captures slow (thermal) neutrons, which cause the nucleus to split. Fast neutrons are less likely to cause fission and require moderation to become effective.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The fission of plutonium nuclei typically occurs when the nucleus is bombarded with slow neutrons (also called thermal neutrons). These neutrons have a lower energy and are more likely to be captured by the plutonium nucleus, causing it to become unstable and undergo fission.

• Fast neutrons have high energy, and while they can cause fission, they are less effective than slow neutrons.
• Slow neutrons are effective in initiating fission reactions in heavy nuclei such as plutonium-239.
• Deuterons and alpha particles are not typically involved in fission reactions with plutonium nuclei.

Thus, the correct answer is:

\[ \boxed{\text{B) Slow neutrons}} \]