Plutonium Trigger
Definition: A "plutonium trigger" is a special device made from a metal like steel or beryllium. Inside this device is a substance called plutonium-239. When explosives are used to compress or squash this device, it starts a process called nuclear fission, which releases a large amount of energy.
Usage Instructions: - The term "plutonium trigger" is mainly used in scientific, military, or nuclear physics contexts. It is not commonly used in everyday conversation. - When discussing nuclear weapons or energy, you might encounter this term.
Example: "The scientists explained that the plutonium trigger is essential for the functioning of a nuclear bomb."
Advanced Usage: In advanced discussions, you might talk about the role of a plutonium trigger in the design of nuclear weapons or in nuclear reactors. You could also discuss the safety measures related to handling such materials.
Word Variants: - "Plutonium" refers to the chemical element itself. - "Trigger" can refer to any mechanism that activates a system, not just in nuclear contexts.
Different Meanings:While "trigger" can refer to a mechanism that sets off an action (like pulling the trigger of a gun), in this context, it specifically refers to the activation of nuclear fission.
Synonyms:There aren’t direct synonyms for “plutonium trigger” since it is a specific term. However, you may find related terms such as: - "Nuclear initiator" (a more general term for devices that start nuclear reactions). - "Fission trigger" (referring to the process that begins fission).
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:There are no idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "plutonium trigger," as it is a technical term. However, in broader discussions about nuclear energy, you might hear phrases like "set off a chain reaction," which refers to a process that leads to a significant result, similar to how a plutonium trigger starts nuclear fission.
Summary: In summary, a "plutonium trigger" is a technical term that describes a device used in nuclear reactions.