15) Why is critical mass important for a fission chain reaction? (bonus) *
A• It keeps neutrons from escaping the sample.
B• It keeps neutrons from being absorbed by other isotopes.
CIt allows neutrons to be absorbed by other fissionable nuclei.
•d It provides enough fuel to make enough energy.
1 D
. It provides enough fuel to make enough energy.
Essentially, critical mass is important because it allows for the sustained chain reaction necessary to release a significant amount of energy in a controlled manner. If there is not enough material present to reach critical mass, the reaction will not be self-sustaining and will not produce the desired amount of energy.