Neutrons Schmeutrons

I had a physics test on Wednesday. I chose not to study for it Tuesday night.

It was a bold move, and in no way reflected the level of my confidence in my mastery of the subject matter. It's just that, after careful consideration, I figured it was probably better for my continued abiltiy to move freely across the American boarder that I rather not know too much about how nuclear fission works.

"Welcome to the United States, Ma'am. I just need to ask you a few questions. Do you know how a nuclear reactor works?"

"Um, I can draw a diagram. But actually explain how the thing works? No. Definitely not."

"Mm-hm. And, are you familiar with the various ways enriched uranium can be degraded into plutonium for use in atomic weapons?"

"Gosh sir. Beyond balancing the equation on a final? No. No, I really don't know that much about it."

"Very good then. Enjoy your visit. Next!"

I like to think of it as The Freedom From Information Act.

P.S. The test went fine. I neither disgraced nor distinguished myself. I can live with that.