subcritical Definition
- 1below or insufficient to sustain a chain reaction in a nuclear reactor
- 2not reaching the level necessary for a particular process or reaction to occur
Using subcritical: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "subcritical" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The reactor is subcritical, meaning it cannot sustain a chain reaction.
Example
The temperature is still subcritical for the reaction to occur.
Example
The company's profits were subcritical for the expansion plan.
subcritical Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for subcritical
- insufficient
- inadequate
- underpowered
- below the threshold
Antonyms for subcritical
Summary: subcritical in Brief
'Subcritical' [sʌbˈkrɪtɪkəl] describes a state that is below the level required for a particular process or reaction to occur. It is often used in the context of nuclear reactors, where it means that the reactor cannot sustain a chain reaction. 'Subcritical' can also refer to situations where something is not sufficient or adequate for a particular purpose, as in 'The company's profits were subcritical for the expansion plan.'
