Radioactivity and Nuclear Reactions

Front

What is the primary nuclear reaction that powers the Sun?

Back

Nuclear fusion.

Front

What type of nuclear reaction is utilized in nuclear power plants?

Back

Nuclear fission.

Front

What is the process called when an atomic nucleus splits into two smaller nuclei?

Back

Fission.

Front

What is the term for the series of reactions that occur when neutrons released in a fission reaction strike other nuclei?

Back

Chain reaction.

Front

What instrument is used to measure radioactivity?

Back

Geiger counter.

Front

What are the two main types of nuclear reactions?

Back

Fusion and fission.

Front

In nuclear fusion, what is typically fused together?

Back

Light atomic nuclei, such as hydrogen isotopes.

Front

What is the main byproduct of nuclear fission?

Back

Radioactive waste and energy.

Front

How does the energy output of fusion compare to fission?

Back

Fusion generally releases more energy than fission.

Front

What is the role of neutrons in a fission reaction?

Back

They initiate and sustain the chain reaction.