Nuclear Fission

• What is nuclear fission?

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

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

  Two ways
• What are the two ways nuclear fission can occur?

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

  No, it is rare
• What is used to start the fission process in reactors?

  Neutrons
• What happens when a neutron is added to a large unstable nucleus?

  It makes the nucleus less stable and splits it
• What are the smaller nuclei produced in fission called?

  Daughter nuclei
• What is released along with daughter nuclei during fission?

  Two or three more neutrons and energy
• What form of energy is released during nuclear fission?

  Gamma radiation
• What is the significance of the neutrons released during fission?

  They can trigger further fission reactions
• What is a chain reaction in nuclear fission?

  First fission triggers more fissions
• What can happen if the fission process is not controlled?

  It can lead to a nuclear explosion
• What is used to control the rate of fission in reactors?

  Control rods
• How do control rods work in a nuclear reactor?

  They absorb neutrons to slow the reaction
• What is the purpose of the energy released from fission?

  To heat water and produce steam
• How is steam used in nuclear power generation?

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

  Pros:

  • Cheap uranium or plutonium fuel
  • Large and steady energy production
  • Clean, no greenhouse gases

  
  

  Cons:

  • Expensive power plant construction
  • Costly nuclear waste disposal
  • Risk of major disasters
• Is nuclear energy considered renewable?

  No, it is not renewable
• Why is nuclear energy considered clean?

  It doesn't produce greenhouse gases
• What is a major risk associated with nuclear power plants?

  Major disasters if they malfunction
• Why do people feel suspicious about using nuclear energy?

  Due to the risk of major disasters