GCSE Physics Tutorial - Nuclear Fission
In this tutorial, we will define nuclear fission, an important process in nuclear physics. Nuclear fission is a type of nuclear reaction involving the splitting of atomic nuclei, resulting in the release of a significant amount of energy.
Definition of Nuclear Fission: Nuclear fission is a nuclear reaction in which the nucleus of an atom, typically a heavy isotope such as uranium-235 or plutonium-239, splits into two or more smaller nuclei (fission fragments) when struck by a neutron. Along with the formation of fission fragments, several neutrons are also released as by-products of the reaction.
Key Points about Nuclear Fission:
Heavy Nuclei: Nuclear fission typically involves heavy nuclei, such as uranium-235 and plutonium-239, which have large numbers of protons and neutrons in their nuclei.
Neutron Induced: The process of nuclear fission is initiated by the absorption of a neutron by the nucleus of a heavy atom. The absorbed neutron causes the heavy nucleus to become unstable and split into smaller nuclei.
Energy Release: The fission process releases an enormous amount of energy in the form of kinetic energy of the fission fragments and high-speed neutrons. This energy release is the basis for nuclear power generation and nuclear weapons.
Chain Reaction: The neutrons released during fission can go on to cause further fission reactions by colliding with other heavy nuclei. This can lead to a chain reaction, where each fission event produces more neutrons, leading to a rapid increase in the number of fission reactions.
Controlled and Uncontrolled Fission: Nuclear fission can occur in a controlled manner in nuclear power plants, where the rate of fission is carefully regulated to produce energy. On the other hand, uncontrolled fission, as in nuclear weapons or nuclear accidents, can lead to catastrophic events.
Applications of Nuclear Fission:
Nuclear Power Generation: Nuclear fission is harnessed in nuclear power plants to produce electricity by generating heat through controlled fission reactions.
Nuclear Weapons: Uncontrolled nuclear fission is used to create explosive energy in nuclear weapons.
Radioisotope Production: Nuclear fission is utilised to produce radioisotopes used in various medical, industrial, and research applications.
Nuclear fission is the process of splitting heavy atomic nuclei into smaller fragments, releasing a tremendous amount of energy. This process is central to nuclear power generation, nuclear weapons, and various other applications. Understanding nuclear fission is essential in grasping the principles of nuclear physics and its impact on energy production and society.
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