Criticality

Criticality refers to the point at which a system, process, or material reaches a state where it becomes self-sustaining or potentially dangerous. In nuclear contexts, it’s when a chain reaction produces a steady amount of energy without needing additional input. In broader terms, criticality indicates that small changes can lead to significant impacts, so understanding and managing it is essential for safety and stability. It highlights the importance of key factors that determine whether a system remains controlled or escalates into an unstable or unsafe situation.