Radioactivity and Particles: Nuclear Fission

Nuclear fission is the process in which a large nucleus splits into two smaller nuclei, generating a significant amount of energy.
Uranium-235 and Plutonium-239 are the most common fuels used in nuclear fission.
This process begins when a slow-moving neutron collides with the nucleus of a uranium atom, leading to the absorption of the neutron.
The new atom formed cannot maintain stability, leading to an instant split into two smaller nuclei.
This division generates a huge amount of energy in the form of kinetic energy and gamma radiation.
Along with the energy produced, two or three more neutrons are released. These neutrons can initiate further fission reactions, creating a chain reaction.
Atom bombs function based on uncontrolled nuclear fission. On the other hand, in nuclear power plants, this process is controlled to produce electricity.
The main drawback of nuclear fission is that it produces radioactive waste, which is difficult to dispose of and harmful to living things and the environment.
Careful measures are required to regulate and control the process to avoid nuclear accidents.
In nuclear power stations, control rods made of boron or cadmium are used to absorb the excess neutrons, controlling the rate of fission.
The byproducts of nuclear fission have the potential for further energy production - this is known as secondary fission.
There is ongoing research into how nuclear fission could be better harnessed as a clean and efficient energy source.
Understanding the precise mechanism of nuclear fission is vital in areas such as healthcare, where it is used in cancer treatment to target and kill cancerous cells.

Use these points as a guide while preparing for your “Radioactivity and Particles: Nuclear Fission” topic. Remember to use diagrams where possible to illustrate concepts and processes for better understanding. Don’t forget to practise past paper questions on this topic too. Good luck!