Nuclear Fusion And Fission Flashcards
what is nuclear fusion
when two atomic nuclei join to make a larger nucleus. alot of energy is released when this happens
what is nuclear fission
splitting a nucleus into two or more parts. alot of energy is released when this happens
how is nuclear fission done
atoms with a big nucleus like uranium, have a neutron shot at it. this makes the nucleus unstable causing it to split into 2 smaller nuclei.
how is the process of nuclear fission like a chain reaction
when the nucleus splits, more neutrons are released in the process which can collide with other nuclei, causing a chain reaction increasing in acceleration
what must the neutron be
a slow one so it can get absorbed by the nucleus
what is a nuclear meltdown
reactions happening too quickly and are out of control.
how is a nuclear meltdown controlled
control rods are slid next to the fuel rods to absorb the neutrons. they dont give off energy. the fuel rods are what contain the uranium
what does the moderator do
controls the speed of the neutrons so reactions can take place
what are the most preferred atoms to use in fusion
hydrogen 1 and 2 because it requires the least energy
when H 1 and 2 are fused what does it make
helium 3 and alot of energy. H 1 is a proton, H2 is a proton and neutron and helium 3 is 2 protons and a neutron
if both nuclei sued to fuse have the same type of charge what repulsion takes place
electrostatic repulsion
why do we use fission instead of fusion
material that can contain nuclear fusion is beyond or technology as the heat created by it is too much and will melt everything we have
