Nuclear Fission Flashcards
1
Q
What is nuclear fission
A
Splitting of an atomic nucleus
2
Q
When can fission occur
A
The uranium-235 or plutonium-239 must first absorb a neutron
3
Q
What happens to the nucleus undergoing fission
A
Splits into two smaller nuclei and two or three neutrons
Energy is released
4
Q
What may happen to the neutrons
A
They may go on to start a chain reaction
5
Q
What are the two fissionable substances in common use in nuclear reactors
A
Uranium-235
Plutonium-239
