fission

• What is nuclear fission?

  Splitting of large unstable nuclei
• What happens during nuclear fission?

  It releases energy and smaller nuclei
• How can nuclear fission occur?

  Spontaneously or by absorbing a neutron
• Is spontaneous fission common?

  No, it is rare
• What is required to start fission in nuclear reactors?

  Neutrons are needed to initiate fission
• What happens when a neutron is added to a uranium-235 nucleus?

  It becomes less stable and splits
• What are the products of nuclear fission?

  Two smaller nuclei and energy
• What is a chain reaction in nuclear fission?

  One fission triggers more fissions
• What can happen if a chain reaction is uncontrolled?

  It can lead to a nuclear explosion
• How is the fission rate controlled in nuclear reactors?

  Using control rods to absorb neutrons
• What is the purpose of the energy released in nuclear fission?

  To heat water and produce steam
• How does steam produced from nuclear fission contribute to electricity generation?

  It drives turbines connected to generators
• What are the pros and cons of nuclear energy?

  Pros:

  • Cheap uranium or plutonium fuel
  • Produces large, steady energy
  • Clean, no greenhouse gases

  
  

  Cons:

  • Expensive to build power plants
  • Costly nuclear waste disposal
  • Risk of major disasters
• What is a major risk associated with nuclear power plants?

  Potential for major disasters
• Why do some people distrust nuclear energy?

  Due to the risk of plant malfunctions