Fusion & Fission

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What is nuclear fission?

Back

Nuclear fission is a nuclear reaction in which the nucleus of an atom splits into smaller parts, releasing a significant amount of energy.

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What is nuclear fusion?

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Nuclear fusion is a nuclear reaction in which two light atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy in the process.

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What is a chain reaction in nuclear fission?

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A chain reaction occurs when the products of a nuclear fission reaction cause further fission reactions, leading to a self-sustaining series of reactions.

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What are the main products of nuclear fission?

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The main products of nuclear fission are smaller nuclei (fission fragments), neutrons, and a large amount of energy.

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What is radioactive waste?

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Radioactive waste is material that contains radioactive substances and is a byproduct of nuclear reactions, requiring careful disposal due to its hazardous nature.

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What is the role of neutrons in nuclear fission?

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Neutrons initiate and propagate the fission process by colliding with and splitting other atomic nuclei.

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What is the primary fuel used in nuclear fission reactors?

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The primary fuel used in nuclear fission reactors is uranium, particularly uranium-235.

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What conditions are necessary for nuclear fusion to occur?

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Nuclear fusion requires extremely high temperatures and pressures to overcome the repulsive forces between positively charged nuclei.

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What is the main advantage of nuclear fusion over nuclear fission?

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Nuclear fusion produces significantly less radioactive waste and has a virtually limitless fuel supply compared to nuclear fission.

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What is the sun's energy source?

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The sun's energy source is nuclear fusion, primarily the fusion of hydrogen atoms into helium.