Nuclear Science Flashcard

Front

What is nuclear fission?

Back

The splitting of a heavy nucleus into two lighter nuclei.

Front

What is a common fuel used in nuclear fission reactors?

Back

Uranium-235.

Front

Which type of radioactive decay releases the largest amount of energy?

Back

Gamma decay.

Front

What is nuclear fusion?

Back

The process of combining two light nuclei to form a heavier nucleus.

Front

What is a chain reaction in the context of nuclear fission?

Back

A reaction where the product of one reaction initiates further reactions.

Front

What is the primary difference between nuclear fission and nuclear fusion?

Back

Nuclear fission involves splitting heavy nuclei, while nuclear fusion involves combining light nuclei.

Front

What is the role of a moderator in a nuclear reactor?

Back

To slow down neutrons to sustain the chain reaction.

Front

What is the significance of critical mass in nuclear fission?

Back

It is the minimum amount of fissile material needed to maintain a chain reaction.

Front

What are the byproducts of nuclear fission?

Back

Radioactive isotopes and a large amount of energy.

Front

What is the process of radioactive decay?

Back

The spontaneous transformation of an unstable atomic nucleus into a more stable one.