Fission vs Cluster Decay: What is the Difference?

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In summary, fission is defined as the process of a nuclide absorbing a neutron and splitting into smaller nuclides and debris. Isotopes that undergo fission with fast neutrons are considered fissionable, but this does not apply to slow neutrons. Be-9 is not considered fissionable. The dividing line between fission and cluster decay is a debated topic, with some arguing that aneutronic fusion reactions should be considered fission. However, the speed of neutrons does not define fissionability. Therefore, the reaction Be-9+n=2α+2n is not considered fission, but rather a common reaction.
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snorkack
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What is defined as "fission"?
Isotopes that undergo "fission" under influence of fast neutrons, though not slow neutrons, are classified as "fissionable". Is Be-9 fissionable?
What is the dividing line between "fission" and "cluster decay"?
 
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I have a group of nuclear engineering friends, and there is always rivalry between the fission folks and the fusion folks. The fission folks are fond of pointing out that the much studied aneutronic fusion reaction p+B11->3α should really be considered fission!
 
  • #3
Speed of neutron does not define fissionable. Fissionable usually refers to a nuclide absorbing a neutron and splitting up in (usually) two smaller nuclides plus debris (neutrons, etc.). Be-9 is not fissionable.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cluster_decay
 
  • #4
mathman said:
Fissionable usually refers to a nuclide absorbing a neutron and splitting up in (usually) two smaller nuclides plus debris (neutrons, etc.). Be-9 is not fissionable.
Be-9+n=2α+2n
Common reaction. Is it fission?
 
  • #5
snorkack said:
Be-9+n=2α+2n
Common reaction. Is it fission?
It is a matter of definition.
 

FAQ: Fission vs Cluster Decay: What is the Difference?

What is fission and cluster decay?

Fission and cluster decay are both types of nuclear decay, where a nucleus splits into smaller fragments. Fission involves the splitting of a large nucleus into two smaller nuclei, while cluster decay involves the emission of a small cluster of nucleons (protons and neutrons) from a nucleus.

What is the main difference between fission and cluster decay?

The main difference between fission and cluster decay is the size of the fragments that are produced. In fission, the fragments are large nuclei, while in cluster decay, the fragments are small clusters of nucleons.

Which type of decay is more common, fission or cluster decay?

Fission is more common than cluster decay, as it occurs in larger, heavier nuclei. Cluster decay is more likely to occur in lighter nuclei with a high proton-to-neutron ratio.

What are the potential applications of fission and cluster decay?

Fission is used in nuclear power plants to generate energy, while cluster decay has potential applications in nuclear medicine for targeted cancer therapy and in the production of rare isotopes for scientific research.

Are there any risks associated with fission and cluster decay?

Both fission and cluster decay can release large amounts of energy, which can be dangerous if not properly controlled. Fission can also produce radioactive waste, which must be handled and stored carefully to prevent harm to the environment and human health.

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