Nuclear Fission Flashcards
1
Q
What happens once the neutron has been fired at the isotope?
A
The nucleus absorbs it, makes the atom unstable and forces it to split into 2 daughter nuclei
2
Q
What type of energy is released in nuclear fission?
A
Thermal/heat
3
Q
When the radioactive isotope decays, what is spit out?
A
2 or 3 neutrons
4
Q
Is nuclear fission a chain reaction?
A
Yes
5
Q
How is nuclear fission used in nuclear power stations?
A
The thermal energy is used to boil water and the steam from this turns a generator that turns a turbine and this creates electrical energy
6
Q
What is the first stage of nuclear fission?
A
A slow moving neutron is fired at a radioactive isotope (e.g. uranium-235)
