All Flashcards
Label the diagram of nuclear fission (Figure 1).
1: Neutron, 2: Uranium-235 Nucleus, 3: Barium Nucleus, 4: Krypton Nucleus, 5: Released Neutrons, 6: Energy
What does the Radioactive Decay Graph (Figure 2) illustrate?
The exponential decay of a radioactive substance over time, showing the concept of half-life.
Describe the process of induced nuclear fission.
- A neutron is absorbed by a heavy nucleus (e.g., Uranium-235). 2. The nucleus becomes unstable. 3. The nucleus splits into two or more lighter nuclei, releasing energy and additional neutrons. 4. These neutrons can then induce further fission reactions (chain reaction).
What are the general steps of radioactive decay?
- An unstable nucleus exists. 2. The nucleus spontaneously emits particles (alpha, beta, gamma) and/or energy. 3. The nucleus transforms into a more stable configuration, potentially a different element or isotope.
Outline the steps of nuclear fusion in stars.
- Extremely high temperatures and pressures are present in the star's core. 2. Hydrogen nuclei (protons) overcome electrostatic repulsion. 3. Hydrogen nuclei fuse to form helium, releasing energy. 4. Further fusion reactions create heavier elements.
What is the effect of mass defect in nuclear fusion?
Release of energy due to the difference in mass between reactants and products.
What is the effect of a nucleus being unstable?
The nucleus undergoes spontaneous radioactive decay to achieve a more stable configuration.
What happens when a neutron is absorbed by Uranium-235?
Induced nuclear fission occurs, releasing energy and more neutrons.
What is the effect of high temperature and pressure on light nuclei?
Overcoming electrostatic repulsion, enabling nuclear fusion.