In a nuclear power reactor of the type used to generate electricity, a neutron bombards a uranium nucleus, causing it to split into two large pieces (fission fragments) plus two or three neutrons. Energy is released in this process in the form of electromagnetic radiation and kinetic energy. Which of the following is an accurate statement concerning what happens in such a fission process?
A) The electrical energy generated comes from the kinetic energy of the incident neutrons.
B) The electrical energy generated comes from chemical energy stored in the electron bonds of the uranium atom.
C) Electrical energy is generated because the fission fragments are electrically charged, whereas the uranium was electrically neutral.
D) An intermediate step involves the fusion of protons to form helium nuclei, and energy is released in this process.
E) The total mass of the particles after fission is less than the total mass of the particles (uranium nucleus plus one neutron) before fission, and this decrease in mass Δm is converted into energy E, where E = Δmc2.
Correct Answer:
Verified
Q33: The process during which small nuclei combine
Q34: Fission fragments tend to be radioactive because
Q35: A unit that measures the effective dose
Q36: The chief hazard of radiation damage to
Q37: Which of the following best describes the
Q39: What is the principal difference between a
Q40: PET is an abbreviation for
A)photon-electron tunneling.
B)positron emission
Q41: Consider the fission reaction: Q42: What is the missing term in this Q43: In the fission reaction 235U +![]()
Unlock this Answer For Free Now!
View this answer and more for free by performing one of the following actions
Scan the QR code to install the App and get 2 free unlocks
Unlock quizzes for free by uploading documents