Nuclear fission (Edexcel GCSE Physics): Flashcards
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What is nuclear fission?
What is nuclear fission?
Unstable nucleus splits into 2 smaller nuclei, releasing 2-3 neutrons, gamma rays, and energy
Elements produced in nuclear fission
Elements produced in nuclear fission
Two smaller nuclei of different elements than original
Number of neutrons produced in fission
Number of neutrons produced in fission
2 or 3 neutrons
Energy form of all fission products
Energy form of all fission products
Kinetic energy
What is a chain reaction in fission?
What is a chain reaction in fission?
Neutrons absorbed by other atoms, causing more fission reactions
Energy released as radiation in fission
Energy released as radiation in fission
Gamma rays
How do nuclear power stations use fission?
How do nuclear power stations use fission?
Heat water → steam → turn turbines → generate electricity
What do control rods do?
What do control rods do?
Absorb neutrons to control chain reaction speed
Result of uncontrolled chain reaction
Result of uncontrolled chain reaction
Huge energy release in explosion (nuclear weapons)
Is spontaneous fission common?
Is spontaneous fission common?
No, it's rare
What must nucleus absorb for fission to occur?
What must nucleus absorb for fission to occur?
A neutron
Rate of uncontrolled chain reaction
Rate of uncontrolled chain reaction
Exponential rate
Which nuclei are used in nuclear fission?
Which nuclei are used in nuclear fission?
Uranium nuclei
Size of 2 nuclei produced in fission
Size of 2 nuclei produced in fission
Roughly equal in size