Energy in nuclear reactions

Question 1

What is not conserved in nuclear reactions?

Answer 1

Rest mass

Question 2

If energy is released in the reaction, _____

Answer 2

If energy is released in the reaction, the total energy of the products will decrease and therefore so its mass

Question 3

If energy is absorbed in the reaction, ___

Answer 3

If energy is absorbed in the reaction, the total energy of the products will increase and therefore so its mass

Question 4

What is mass defect?

Answer 4

The mass of the atom is less than the sum of the masses of its components (protons, neutrons, electrons).

Question 5

What is binding energy?

Answer 5

Binding energy is defined as the energy needed to separate the atom into its constituent parts.

Question 6

What does BE relate to?

Answer 6

Binding energy relates to the stability of the nucleus.

Question 7

Why is binding energy important?

Answer 7

The binding energy is released when the nucleons combine to form the nucleus. By losing energy, a more stable state is obtained.

Question 8

How do we calculate the difference in mass?

Answer 8

Mass defect = mass of reactants - mass of products

Question 9

What is fission?

Answer 9

Fission is the process by which the nucleus splits into lighter nuclei

Question 10

What are nuclear reactors used for?

Answer 10

Designed to maintain a controlled self-sustained chain reaction and to release nuclear energy at a steady controlled state