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Task · part of 6. Nuclear Energy. Do ONE, then discuss nuclear electricity

6(a). Fission, a mousetrap reactor, and critical mass

Optional May not apply

This may not apply to you. You have not answered "Requirement 6: mousetrap reactor or a reactor visit?" yet. Answer it and this step will either settle or drop off.

Draw how nuclear fission happens. Observe a mousetrap reactor set up by an adult and use it to explain how a chain reaction could be started. Explain how one could be stopped or controlled in a reactor, and what "critical mass" means.

Note. The mousetrap reactor is "setup by an adult"; you observe it and use it to explain a chain reaction.

Where this step comes from

  1. Nuclear Science Merit Badge Requirements (Merit Badge Hub, last modified 2026-02-19), Requirement 6(a)

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