Final answer:
Critical mass is the minimum fissionable material needed for a chain reaction in nuclear fission, crucial for activities like atomic bombs and reactors.
Explanation:
Critical mass is the minimum mass of fissionable material required for an uncontrolled chain reaction in nuclear fission. It is the amount of material needed to sustain a self-sustaining chain reaction, crucial for activities like atomic bombs and nuclear reactors.
In a subcritical mass, the material is too small, allowing too many neutrons to escape, preventing a chain reaction from occurring. In contrast, a supercritical mass leads to an increasing rate of fission.
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