Nuclear Fission Flashcards
What happens in Nuclear fission
a uranium - 235 absorbs a neutron to become U-236
This is very reactive and splits into 2 fission fragments and 2 or 3 neutrons
The neutrons will be absorbed by more U-235 and cause more fission
What does nuclear fission require
Uranium 235 isotope
What is the problem with nuclear waste disposal
fission fragments e.g Xe/Kr are very radioactive
If left uncontrolled and a high enrichment of Uranium 235 what happens
MASSIVE CHAIN REACTION
ENERGY UP UP UP
In a fission reactor what are the control rods for
control energy output to stop neutrons from one fission rods reacting with U235 in another fission rod
In a fission reactor what is the moderator role
slow down neutron so first U235 can absorb it
prevent neutron escaping
What is the water/coolant used for in a fission reactor
cool the reactor core and make steam for electricity
What is the diff between a nuclear reactor and bomb
reactor has lower percentage of U235 in
