Nuclear fission is a process in which a heavy atomic nucleus (such as uranium-235 or plutonium-239) splits into two smaller nuclei, releasing a huge amount of energy along with extra neutrons.
Key Features of Nuclear Fission:
- Triggered by neutron absorption: When a heavy nucleus captures a neutron, it becomes unstable and splits.
- Products: Two (or more) smaller nuclei called fission fragments, plus free neutrons and energy.
- Chain reaction: The free neutrons released can strike other nuclei, causing more fission events.
- Energy release: Comes from the strong nuclear force and is millions of times greater than chemical reactions.
Examples in Real Life:
- Nuclear power plants: Control fission chain reactions in reactors to produce heat, which is used to make electricity.
- Atomic bombs: Use uncontrolled fission chain reactions to release massive explosive energy.
Important Points:
- Fission changes one element into different, smaller elements.
- It produces radioactive waste that needs long-term management.
- Controlled fission is a powerful energy source, but uncontrolled fission is extremely destructive.