Critical Size

The critical size is the minimum size of a nuclear reactor core or nuclear weapon that can be made for a specific geometrical arrangement and material composition. The critical size must at least include enough fissionable material to reach critical mass. If the size of the fissionable material is less than a certain minimum, fission neutrons escape through its surface and the chain reaction is not sustained.


Famous quotes containing the words critical and/or size:

    “You took my heart in your hand
    With a friendly smile,
    With a critical eye you scanned,
    Then set it down,
    And said: It is still unripe,
    Better wait awhile;”
    —Christina Georgina Rossetti (1830–1894)

    “Eat your meals according to the size of your bowl.”
    —Chinese proverb.