Nuclear Science Flashcard

Front

What is the primary fuel used in nuclear fission reactors?

Back

Uranium-235

Front

Define nuclear fission.

Back

Nuclear fission is the splitting of a heavy nucleus into two lighter nuclei.

Front

What is the process of nuclear fusion?

Back

Nuclear fusion is the process of combining two light nuclei to form a heavier nucleus.

Front

Explain what a chain reaction is in nuclear fission.

Back

A chain reaction in nuclear fission is a reaction where the product of one reaction initiates further reactions.

Front

What conditions are necessary for nuclear fusion to occur?

Back

High temperature and high pressure are necessary for nuclear fusion to occur.

Front

What is the difference between nuclear fission and nuclear fusion?

Back

Nuclear fission involves splitting a heavy nucleus, while nuclear fusion involves combining light nuclei.

Front

What role does Uranium-235 play in nuclear reactors?

Back

Uranium-235 acts as a fuel that undergoes fission to release energy.

Front

What is a neutron's role in a nuclear fission reaction?

Back

A neutron initiates the fission process by colliding with a heavy nucleus.

Front

What is the significance of a critical mass in nuclear fission?

Back

Critical mass is the minimum amount of fissile material needed to maintain a chain reaction.

Front

What are the byproducts of nuclear fission?

Back

The byproducts of nuclear fission include lighter nuclei, neutrons, and a large amount of energy.