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Nuclear Fission
Nuclear fission is the phenomenon in which an atomic nucleus splits into lighter nuclei. This reaction can be spontaneous in some isotopes, but usually is the result of heavy nuclei absorbing a neutron. Because fission often results in the emission of multiple neutrons, this reaction can be self-sustaining, making such things like nuclear reactors and nuclear weapons possible.
488 Questions
Why is energy released when the nuclear reactions fusion and fission take place?
Energy is released during nuclear fusion and fission due to the conversion of mass into energy, as described by Einstein's equation E=mc². In fusion, lighter atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, resulting in a mass deficit that is converted into energy. In fission, a heavy nucleus splits into lighter nuclei, also producing a mass deficit and releasing energy. Both processes occur because the products have a lower total mass than the reactants, leading to the release of energy.
Yes, that's true. Cadmium in control rods absorbs neutrons, which slows down the nuclear fission reaction in a reactor. By capturing neutrons, it reduces the number of available neutrons to sustain the chain reaction, allowing for better control of the reactor's power output. This property makes cadmium an effective material for regulating fission processes in nuclear reactors.
Where does fissile fuel come from?
Fissile fuel primarily comes from uranium and plutonium, which are materials capable of sustaining a nuclear fission chain reaction. Uranium is mined from the earth, with the most common isotope being uranium-235, while plutonium can be generated in nuclear reactors from uranium-238. These materials undergo processing and enrichment to increase their concentration of fissile isotopes, making them suitable for use in nuclear reactors and weapons. Other fissile materials can also be derived from reprocessed spent nuclear fuel.
Define nuclear fusion and nuclear fission and real world examples?
Nuclear fusion is the process where two light atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing a significant amount of energy; a real-world example is the fusion that powers the sun. In contrast, nuclear fission involves the splitting of a heavy nucleus into lighter nuclei, also releasing energy, and is utilized in nuclear power plants, such as those using uranium-235. Both processes are fundamental to nuclear energy but operate on different principles and reactants.
Why is fission used in power plants?
Fission is used in power plants because it releases a large amount of energy from the splitting of atomic nuclei, primarily uranium-235 or plutonium-239. This process generates heat, which is used to produce steam that drives turbines to generate electricity. Fission is efficient and can produce significant amounts of energy from relatively small amounts of fuel, making it a viable option for large-scale power generation. Additionally, it helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels, contributing to lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Where does the spent fuel in an organic cooled power reactor go?
In an organic cooled power reactor, spent fuel is typically transferred to a spent fuel pool for initial cooling and radiation shielding after it is removed from the reactor. After sufficient cooling, the spent fuel may be moved to dry cask storage or other long-term storage solutions designed to safely contain radioactive materials. Ultimately, the management of spent fuel is subject to regulatory frameworks and may involve reprocessing or disposal in geological repositories.
an increase in concerns about nuclear waste management and the potential for catastrophic accidents. The long-lived radioactive waste generated poses significant storage and environmental challenges, leading to public apprehension. Additionally, incidents like Fukushima and Chernobyl have heightened fears regarding the safety of nuclear facilities. These factors contribute to the ongoing debate about the viability and future of nuclear energy as a sustainable power source.
Is newly kinetic energy a product of nuclear fission reaction?
Yes, newly generated kinetic energy is indeed a product of nuclear fission reactions. During fission, the nucleus of a heavy atom splits into smaller nuclei, releasing a significant amount of energy in the form of kinetic energy of the fission fragments and neutrons. This energy release is a result of the conversion of mass into energy, as described by Einstein's equation (E=mc^2). Additionally, this kinetic energy contributes to the overall energy output of nuclear reactors.
What characteristic best describes how nuclear decay differs from nuclear fission?
Nuclear decay is a spontaneous process where an unstable atomic nucleus transforms into a more stable one by emitting radiation, such as alpha particles or beta particles. In contrast, nuclear fission involves the intentional splitting of a heavy nucleus, like uranium or plutonium, into smaller nuclei, accompanied by the release of a significant amount of energy. While both processes involve changes in atomic nuclei, nuclear decay occurs naturally and randomly, whereas nuclear fission is typically induced in a controlled environment, such as in a nuclear reactor.
Why is Americium not suitable for making fission type nuclear bombs?
Americium is not suitable for making fission-type nuclear bombs because it is primarily an alpha emitter, which means it does not release enough neutrons to sustain a chain reaction necessary for a nuclear explosion. Additionally, it is difficult to obtain enough pure americium for bomb production, as it is a rare element that is not found in large quantities.
What happens when the mass of fissile material used in nuclear weapons is subcritical?
Nothing, it has to become supercritical for a nuclear detonation to happen. Most bombs perform this transition from subcritical state to supercritical state by an implosion driven by conventional explosive lenses. Once supercritical a neutron source is fired through the fissile material to start the reaction leading to the nuclear detonation.
There is a special type of test detonation called a hydronuclear test where the amount of fissile material remains subcritical throughout the implosion. When the neutron source fires the reaction simply multiplies the number of neutrons by a factor then dies out. No nuclear detonation happens. Measurements of this neutron flux can tell about the quality of the implosion, safety, etc. But as there is no nuclear yield, several of the nuclear test ban treaties allowed these hydronuclear tests while banning tests with nuclear yields.
Does lightning produce more power than nuclear fusion?
No, nuclear fusion produces vastly more power than lightning. Nuclear fusion is the energy source of the sun and other stars, generating massive amounts of energy through the fusion of atoms. Lightning, while powerful in a localized sense, is a discharge of static electricity that pales in comparison to the energy output of nuclear fusion.
What year did Otto Hahn invent nuclear fission?
Otto Hahn did not invent nuclear fission. The process was actually discovered in 1938 by Otto Hahn and Fritz Strassmann through their experiments on uranium bombarded with neutrons, leading to the realization that the nucleus of an atom could be split.
Why is nuclear fission a desirable energy source?
Nuclear fission is a desirable energy source because it produces large amounts of energy without the emissions of greenhouse gases. It is a reliable and efficient source of power that can meet high energy demands. Additionally, nuclear fission does not rely on fossil fuels, reducing dependence on finite resources.
What is the input energy of nuclear fission reactor?
It is different for all reactor types, but I'll tell you about the CANDU, as it is widely used, and I know the most about it. Each CANDU reactor holds 4500-6500 fuel bundles at one time, each 50cm long and 10cm in diameter, each weighing about 20kg. Each produces roughly 1GWh (gigawatt hour) of power during its time in the reactor.
Is nuclear cross section is measured in barn?
Yes, nuclear cross section is typically measured in barns, where 1 barn is equal to 1×10^-28 square meters. The barn unit is used because nuclear cross sections are typically very small and measuring them in square meters would result in very small decimal values.
How is the nuclear fission used today?
Fusion power is the power generated by nuclear fusion reactions. In this kind of reaction, two light atomic nuclei fuse together to form a heavier nucleus and in doing so, release a large amount of energy. In a more general sense, the term can also refer to the production of net usable power from a fusion source, similar to the usage of the term "steam power." Most design studies for fusion power plants involve using the fusion reactions to create heat, which is then used to operate a steam turbine, which drives generators to produce electricity. Except for the use of a thermonuclear heat source, this is similar to most coal, oil, and gas-fired power stations as well as fission-driven nuclear power stations.
As of July 2010[update], the largest experiment was the Joint European Torus (JET). In 1997, JET produced a peak of 16.1 megawatts (21,600 hp) of fusion power (65% of input power), with fusion power of over 10 MW (13,000 hp) sustained for over 0.5 sec. In June 2005, the construction of the experimental reactor ITER, designed to produce several times more fusion power than the power put into the plasma over many minutes, was announced. Project partners were preparing the site in 2008. The production of net electrical power from fusion is planned for DEMO, the next generation experiment after ITER. Additionally, the High Power laser Energy Research facility (HiPER) is undergoing preliminary design for possible construction in the European Union starting around 2010.
How is fission inside a powerplant controlled?
Fission in a power plant is controlled by using control rods made of materials like boron or cadmium that absorb neutrons, slowing down or stopping the chain reaction. By adjusting the position of these control rods, operators can regulate the rate of fission, maintaining a stable and controlled nuclear reaction to generate heat for electricity production.
Binary fission is a form of asexual reproduction used by some single-celled organisms, where the cell divides into two identical daughter cells. It is a simple and efficient method for these organisms to reproduce and increase their population.
Is Potential Energy released during fission?
Yes, potential energy is released during fission. This energy is released when a heavy atomic nucleus splits into two lighter nuclei, typically accompanied by the release of additional neutrons and large amounts of energy in the form of heat and radiation.
What are the safety precautions for nuclear fission?
Safety precautions for nuclear fission include having redundant safety systems, regular inspections and maintenance, strict adherence to operating procedures, and proper training for personnel. Emergency response plans and drills should also be in place to address any potential incidents.
