Chapter 20 - Energy From the Nucleus Flashcards
What is nuclear fission?
Splitting of an atomic nucleus into 2 smaller nuclei and the release of 2 or 3 neutrons and energy
When does nuclear fission occur in a reactor?
When a neutron is absorbed in a uranium-235 or plutonium-239 nucleus and the nucleus splits
When and where does a chain reaction occur?
In a reactor when one fission causes further fission events
What do control rods do in a nuclear reactor?
Absorb fission neutrons to ensure that only 1 neutron from each fission goes on to produce further fissions
What is nuclear fusion?
Forcing 2 atomic nuclei close enough that they form a larger nuclei
How can you make nuclear fusion happen?
Making 2 light nuclei collide at a very high speed
What happens as soon as the 2 light nuclei collide and name an example of fusion
Energy is released like what happens in the sun
What does a fusion reactor need to be?
Very hot
What is true about the fused nuclei?
Difficult to contain
What type of radiation does radon gas emit?
Alpha
How does radon gas seep into houses?
Through the ground
What happens to the nuclear waste from a reactor?
Safely stored until the excess uranium and plutonium are removed from it
What is a galaxy?
A collection of billions of stars held together by their own gravity
What made up the universe before galaxies?
A dark patchy cloud of hydrogen and helium
What force pulled matter into galaxies and stars?
Gravity
