E.4 Fission Flashcards
Fission
A large nucleus splits into two or more smaller nuclei.
Uranium-235 Fission Reaction
Absorption of a neutron by Uranium-235 leads to its split into Barium-144, Krypton-89, and some neutrons.
Energy Released in Fission
Large amounts of energy are released, with nuclear fuel releasing more energy per unit mass than other types of fuel.
Mass Defect
The difference between the mass of a nucleus and the sum of the masses of its protons and neutrons.
Chain Reaction
A self-sustaining series of fission reactions where neutrons released by fission cause further fission in other nuclei.
Critical Mass
The minimum amount of fissile material needed to maintain a nuclear chain reaction.
Neutron-Induced vs. Spontaneous Fission
Neutron-induced fission occurs when a neutron collides with a nucleus, while spontaneous fission happens without neutron absorption.
Fuel Enrichment
The process of increasing the concentration of U-235 in nuclear fuel to sustain a chain reaction.
Role of Slow Neutrons in Fission
Slow neutrons are more effective than fast neutrons at inducing fission due to stronger nuclear force interaction.
Mass Energy Equivalence in Fission
The relationship between mass defect and energy release, described by the equation E=mc^2
Nuclear Reactor
A device used to initiate and control a sustained nuclear chain reaction.
Control Rods
Devices that absorb neutrons to control the rate of nuclear reactions.
Moderator
Material that slows down fast neutrons, making them more likely to cause nuclear fission.
Heat Exchanger
A device that transfers heat from the nuclear reactor to the water turning into steam for electricity generation.
Shielding
Protective materials that absorb radiation and prevent it from escaping outside the reactor.
