Nuclear Chemistry Study Guide

Front

What is nuclear fission?

Back

Nuclear fission is a nuclear reaction in which the nucleus of an atom splits into smaller parts, releasing a large amount of energy.

Front

What is nuclear fusion?

Back

Nuclear fusion is a nuclear reaction in which two light atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy.

Front

What is the primary fuel used in nuclear fission?

Back

Uranium-235 is the primary fuel used in nuclear fission reactions.

Front

What conditions are necessary for nuclear fusion to occur?

Back

Extremely high temperatures and pressures are necessary for nuclear fusion to occur.

Front

What is a disadvantage of nuclear fission?

Back

The production of nuclear waste is a significant disadvantage of nuclear fission.

Front

What is a benefit of nuclear fission?

Back

Nuclear fission can produce a large amount of energy, which can be harnessed for electricity generation.

Front

What is the role of neutrons in nuclear fission?

Back

Neutrons initiate the fission process by colliding with the nucleus of an atom.

Front

What is the difference between fission and fusion?

Back

Fission involves the splitting of a nucleus, while fusion involves the combining of nuclei.

Front

What is nuclear energy?

Back

Nuclear energy is the energy released during nuclear reactions, either fission or fusion.

Front

What is a chain reaction in nuclear fission?

Back

A chain reaction occurs when the products of one fission event cause additional fission events.