Neutron Velocity Calculator

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Neutron Velocity Calculator:

Enter the value of neutron energy, E(eV) to determine the value of Neutron velocity, Vn(m/s).

Enter Neutron Energy : eV
   
Result – Neutron Velocity : m/s

Neutron Velocity Formula:

Neutron velocity is an important concept in nuclear physics, particularly in the study of nuclear reactions and reactor physics. Neutron velocity refers to the speed at which neutrons travel, which can vary significantly based on their energy.

Understanding neutron velocity is crucial for controlling nuclear reactions, as it affects reaction rates and the behaviour of neutrons in a reactor. The formula to calculate neutron velocity is derived from the relationship between the energy of the neutron and its velocity.

Neutron velocity, Vn(m/s) in metres per second is calculated by dividing the product of 1.383 * 106 and square root of neutron energy, E(eV) in electron volts by 100.

Neutron velocity, Vn(m/s) = 1.383 * 106 * √ E(eV) / 100

Vn(m/s) = neutron velocity in metres per second, m/s.

E(eV) = neutron energy in electron volts, eV.

Neutron Velocity Calculation:

1.Calculate the velocity of a neutron with an energy of 0.025 eV (thermal neutron):

Given: E(eV) = 0.025eV.

Neutron velocity, Vn(m/s) = 1.383 * 106 * √ E(eV) / 100

Vn(m/s) = 1.383 * 106 * √0.025 / 100

Vn(m/s) = 1.383 * 106 * 0.158 / 100

Vn(m/s) = 2186.71m/s.

2.Suppose the velocity of a neutron is measured to be 2500 m/s. Calculate the corresponding energy of this neutron.

Given: Vn(m/s) = 2500m/s.

Neutron velocity, Vn(m/s) = 1.383 * 106 * √ E(eV) / 100

E(eV) = ( Vn(m/s) * 100 / 1.383 * 106 )2

E(eV) = (2500 * 100 / 1.383 * 106 )2

E(eV) = (0.1806)2

E(eV) = 0.0326eV.

Applications and Considerations:

  • Nuclear Engineering: Neutron velocities are critical for the design and operation of nuclear reactors, influencing how reactors are controlled and maintained.
  • Medical Physics: High-velocity neutrons are used in certain types of cancer therapy to damage tumor cells more effectively.
  • Research: In physics research, neutron velocity is studied to understand fundamental nuclear interactions and properties.
  • Safety: Knowing the velocities of neutrons helps in designing safety measures in nuclear facilities to protect against radiation exposure.

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