Nuclear Chemistry

Nuclear Fission
Prepared By:

Julie S.R.
Roll No: 9
Physical Science,GCTE,Trivandrum
Involve changes in the composition of nuclei
Accompanied by the release of tremendous
amounts of energy
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In nuclear fission,
a large nucleus is bombarded with a small
particle
the nucleus splits into smaller nuclei and
several neutrons
large amounts of energy are released
Nuclear Fission
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Nuclear Fission
When a neutron bombards U-235,
an unstable nucleus of U-236 forms and undergoes
fission (splits)
smaller nuclei are produced such as Kr-91 and
Ba-142
neutrons are released to bombard more
235
U


some elements undergo fission
spontaneously
some elements can be induced to undergo
fission when bombarded with other
particles (e.g. neutrons)

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Nuclear Fission Diagram and
Equation

1 235 236 91 142 1
0 92 92 36 56 0
+ U U Kr + Ba + 3 + energy n n
The Atomic Bomb
(FISSION)
when the nucleus of U-235 splits, 2
isotopes are formed, plus neutrons are
emitted
these neutrons collide with other U-235
atoms, causing them to undergo fission;
they release neutrons, and so on
The result - CHAIN REACTION!!
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Chain Reaction
A chain reaction occurs
when a critical mass of
uranium undergoes
fission
releasing a large
amount of heat and
energy that produces
an atomic explosion
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Nuclear Power Plants
In nuclear power plants,
fission is used to produce energy
control rods in the reactor absorb neutrons to
slow and control the chain reactions of fission
1) Fission heats up water in vessel and heat is
carried away.
2) This heat is used to heat up water in a second
system, which turns into steam.
3) Steam turns turbine of a generator.
4) Generator makes electricity.
Thank You