Nuclear Fission and Fusion

I can draw a model of nuclear fission.I can recognize a nuclear fission equation.I can describe two applications for nuclear fission.I can draw a model of nuclear fusion.I can recognize a nuclear fusion equation.

I can draw a model of nuclear fission.I can recognize a fission equation.

• Induced fission- a neutron is absorbed by a heavy isotope, and it splits into two particles of uneven mass plus 2 or 3 neutrons and energy.

The amount of energy released is called binding energy- energy required to keep the nucleus together.

I can describe 2 applications of nuclear fission.

•Applications of fission–Nuclear power-fission is controlled, and

nuclear energy released is transformed into electrical energy

Fat Man and Little Boy

• Nuclear Weapons- fission releases neutrons that cause a chain reaction and huge release of energy (BOOM) when not controlled.

I can draw a model of nuclear fusion.I can recognize a fusion equation.

• Fusion- the combination (or fusing) of two lighter nuclei into one larger nuclei

It requires a HUGE amount of energy to overcome the repulsion between the positively charged protons.

It requires heat (108 K or 179,999,540.33 F) to cause fusion to occur.

Fusion is what causes the energy from the sun and stars. Fusion releases much more energy than fission!!

Learning Check

• Draw a model of nuclear fission. Keep it simple!

• What feature in the nuclear fission equation makes it different from the fusion equation?

• What are two applications of nuclear fission?• Draw a model of nuclear fusion. Keep it

simple!