Chapter 4: Problem 6

Give an example of a nuclear reaction. Describe the process by which it takes place.

Short Answer

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An example of a nuclear reaction is the fission of Uranium-235, a process frequently used in nuclear power plants. This reaction involves a neutron being absorbed by Uranium-235, creating an unstable isotope that splits into two smaller nuclei, releasing more neutrons, gamma photons, and a considerable amount of energy. The reaction can be represented as: \( {^{235}_{92}U} + {^{1}_{0}n} -> {^{140}_{54}Xe} + {^{94}_{38}Sr} + 2{^{1}_{0}n} + Energy \)

Step by step solution

Identify the Reaction

In nuclear power plants, a commonly used reaction is the fission of Uranium-235. This heavy isotope of uranium is bombarded with slow-moving neutrons to initiate the reaction.

Describe the Fission

When Uranium-235 absorbs a neutron, it becomes Uranium-236, an unstable isotope. This unstable nucleus splits, or 'fissions,' into two smaller nuclei. The fission of Uranium-236 generally produces Krypton and Barium, but other combinations with similar atomic numbers may also occur.

Detail the By-products

Besides the two smaller nuclei (known as fission products), the fission process also releases few additional free neutrons, gamma photons and a large amount of energy. The released neutrons can further initiate more fission reactions, creating a chain reaction.

Write the Nuclear Reaction

In terms of a balanced nuclear equation, this reaction can be represented as follows: \( {^{235}_{92}U} + {^{1}_{0}n} -> {^{140}_{54}Xe} + {^{94}_{38}Sr} + 2{^{1}_{0}n} + Energy \)Note: The atomic numbers (subscripts) on each side of the equation add up to the same total, as do the mass numbers (superscripts), indicating the conservation of both charge and nucleons in the reaction.

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Give an example of a nuclear reaction. Describe the process by which it takes place.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Identify the Reaction

Describe the Fission

Detail the By-products

Write the Nuclear Reaction

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