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The fuel in a nuclear power station is an isotope of uranium - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 2 - 2013 - Paper 1
Question 2
The fuel in a nuclear power station is an isotope of uranium. (a) The symbol for a nucleus of this uranium isotope is \(^{235}_{92}U\). (i) How many protons are th... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The fuel in a nuclear power station is an isotope of uranium - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 2 - 2013 - Paper 1
Step 1
Step 2
Name another particle in a nucleus of this isotope.
Answer
Another particle in the nucleus of this isotope is the neutron. In this case, since uranium-235 has 143 neutrons (calculated by (235 - 92 = 143)), we can specify that neutrons are fundamental particles that, alongside protons, make up the nucleus.
Step 3
Explain what happens when nuclear fission occurs.
Answer
Nuclear fission occurs when the nucleus of an atom, such as uranium-235, absorbs a neutron and becomes unstable. This instability causes the nucleus to split into two smaller nuclei, along with the release of energy and additional neutrons. These released neutrons can further cause fission in nearby nuclei, resulting in a chain reaction.
Step 4
Explain how these rods stop the nuclear reaction from getting out of control.
Answer
Control rods are made of materials that absorb neutrons, such as boron or cadmium. By inserting the control rods into the reactor core, the number of free neutrons available to sustain the chain reaction is reduced. This action effectively slows down or stops the fission reaction, allowing the reactor to be controlled and preventing overheating or potential meltdowns.