The effective neutron multiplication factor of a reactor is defined as k = (number of neutrons in one generation) ÷ (number of neutrons in the preceding generation). Under which condition is the reactor operating at a steady, self-sustained power level?
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Question

The effective neutron multiplication factor of a reactor is defined as k = (number of neutrons in one generation) ÷ (number of neutrons in the preceding generation). Under which condition is the reactor operating at a steady, self-sustained power level?

Options

G1 Physics · Accepted Answer

The multiplication factor indicates whether the neutron population grows, remains constant or decreases from one generation to the next. If k < 1, the neutron population decreases and the reactor is subcritical. If k = 1, each generation replaces itself exactly. The neutron population and reactor power can remain steady. This is the critical condition. If k > 1, the neutron population grows and the reactor is supercritical. Correct option: B.