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 the role of neutrons in nuclear reactors?

  To start the fission process
• What happens when a neutron is added to uranium-235?

  It makes the nucleus less stable
• What type of radiation is released during fission?

  Gamma radiation
• What are the products of nuclear fission of uranium-235?

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

  One fission triggers more fissions
• What can happen if a nuclear fission process is uncontrolled?

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

  By using control rods to absorb neutrons
• What is the purpose of control rods in a nuclear reactor?

  To slow down the fission reaction
• What is the energy from nuclear fission used for?

  To heat water and generate steam
• What do steam turbines connected to a generator do?

  Convert steam energy into electricity
• 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 power plants
  • Costly nuclear waste disposal
  • Risk of major disasters
• Why is nuclear energy considered clean?

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

  Malfunction leading to disasters
• Why do people feel suspicious about using nuclear energy?

  Due to the risk of major disasters
• What is the main source of nuclear energy on Earth?

  Nuclear fission
• What happens to the energy released during nuclear fission?

  It heats water to produce steam
• How does the addition of a neutron affect an unstable nucleus?

  It increases instability and causes fission