THE CRITICAL ASSEMBLY--A NUCLEAR ANALOG

Use of a critical assembly makes it possible to obtain specific design information more quickly and more accurately than any other method. Since the amount, type, and arrangement of materials in the assembly is the same as in the planned prototype, it is an effective analog device from which physics data can be obtained. The specific uses, experimental objectives, equipment, instrumentation and safety systems, and typical programs of critical assemblies are discussed. (M.C.G.)