Total Prompt Energy Release in the Neutron-Induced Fission of 235-U, 238-U, and 239-Pu

Abstract

This study addresses, for the first time, the total prompt energy release and its components for the fission of 235-U, 238-U, and 239-Pu as a function of the kinetic energy of the neutron inducing the fission. The components are extracted from experimental measurements, where they exist, together with model-dependent calculation, interpolation, and extrapolation. While the components display clear dependencies upon the incident neutron energy, their sums display only weak, yet definite, energy dependencies. Also addressed is the total prompt energy deposition in fission for the same three systems. Results are presented in equation form. New measurements are recommended as a consequence of this study.