Nuclear Fission and fusion

Question 1

How is a chain reaction of nuclear fission started off?

Answer 1

> a neutron is fired into the nucleus of a fissionable element, causing the nucleus to split into two smaller nuclei that causes a release of energy

> 3 new neutrons are released, causing the process to continue

Question 2

What element is used to control the rate of fission?

Answer 2

Boron, it absorbs some of the neutrons.

Question 3

What are 2 fissionable elements in common use?

Answer 3

> uranium 235

> plutonium 239

Question 4

Why is it difficult to recreate nuclear fusion on earth?

Answer 4

> because it is the fusion of two nuclei

> they repel as are positively charged and so process requires large amounts of heat and pressure

Question 5

What are the differences between nuclear fission and fusion?

Answer 5

> fission is the splitting of large atomic nuclei to release energy, fusion is the joining of small atomic nuclei

> fusion produces no radioactive waste, fission produced radioactive waste that needs to be disposed of

> fission is in use currently, fusion is at the moment unachievable because it requires such high temperatures.