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The capture of a neutron can split a nucleus - but only for certain isotopes like U-235 and Pu-239.

Two naturally occurring isotopes undergo spontaneous fission, meaning the nucleus splits without neutron capture. These are 235U and 238U. A few other isotopes undergo spontaneous fission, but these are produced by an earlier neutron capture. Spontaneous fission is the result of quantum tunnelling, which is rather difficult to explain. There are related links below.

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Related Questions

What involves splitting a nucleus?

nuclear fission


What is The splitting of a heavy nucleus is called?

fission.


What is the best definition of nuclear fission?

the splitting of a nucleus


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The splitting of the nucleus is called mitosis, which is the division of the nucleus into two identical daughter nuclei. It involves several stages, including prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase, where the chromosomes are separated and distributed equally to each daughter cell.


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No, splitting wood does not involve splitting atoms. Splitting wood refers to the process of using a tool, such as an axe or a log splitter, to separate a piece of wood into smaller pieces that are more manageable for fuel or woodworking purposes. Splitting atoms, on the other hand, refers to the process of breaking apart the nucleus of an atom, often done in nuclear reactions for energy production or scientific research.


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Splitting an atom is Fission.


What is Atom Bom?

weapon with great explosive power that results from the sudden release of energy upon the splitting, or fission, of the nuclei of such heavy elements as plutonium or uranium. When a neutron strikes the nucleus of an atom of the isotopes uranium 235 or plutonium-239, it causes that nucleus to split into two fragments, each of which is a nucleus with about half the protons and neutrons of the original nucleus. In the process of splitting, a great amount of thermal energy, as well as gamma rays and two or more neutrons, is released..


The splitting of an atom's nucleus into two smaller nuclei is called?

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What term is use to describe splitting a large atomic nucleus into smaller ones?

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