Investigation of the energetics of binary and ternary fission in 252Cf and 236U*

Abstract

An attempt is made to calculate the total energy released in binary, neutron accompanied and α-particle accompanied fission of 236U* and 252Cf. Using measured values for the average kinetic energy released in fission, estimates are obtained for the average deformation-excitation energy of fission in each mode. The average number of neutrons emitted from the accelerated fragments in each fission mode is also evaluated and leads to estimates for the average energy required to emit a neutron in binary and ternary fission. Best values are found for the differential energetics between binary and ternary fission in 252Cf and 236U*. By comparing their electrostatic potential energies at the moment of scission, the mean extension of positive charge is found to be greater on average in α-particle accompanied fission, than in binary fission. A number of experimentally determined parameters of interest in fission theory are also presented.