Nuclear fission is a nuclear reaction in which the nucleus of an atom is split into two or more smaller nuclei, along with the release of a large amount of energy. This process is the basis for the operation of nuclear power plants and nuclear weapons.
During nuclear fission, a heavy atomic nucleus, such as that of uranium-235 or plutonium-239, absorbs a neutron, becomes unstable, and splits into two or more smaller nuclei, along with the release of additional neutrons and a large amount of energy in the form of gamma rays and kinetic energy of the fission products.
The energy released during nuclear fission is several million times greater than the energy released in a chemical reaction, making it an extremely efficient source of energy for power generation.
In a nuclear power plant, nuclear fission is carefully controlled to ensure that the chain reaction proceeds at a steady rate, producing a constant supply of heat to generate electricity. This is achieved through the use of control rods to absorb excess neutrons and maintain the reaction at a stable level.
Here are some key points to remember about nuclear fission:
Understanding the process and applications of nuclear fission is essential for understanding the role of nuclear energy in our world today.
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