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Nuclear fission and fusion
This physics-only topic compares splitting large nuclei with joining light nuclei and links both processes to energy release.
22
Objectives
110
Flashcards
110
Questions
90 min
Study time
AQAGCSEPhysicsAtomic structure
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What you need to know
22 objective pages available
Nuclear fission (physics only)12 objectives
- (Physics only) Define nuclear fission as the splitting of a large unstable nucleus.
- (Physics only) Identify uranium and plutonium as examples of nuclei that can undergo fission.
- (Physics only) Describe how a neutron is absorbed by a large nucleus before fission.
- (Physics only) Describe how fission produces two smaller nuclei.
- (Physics only) State that fission releases energy.
- (Physics only) State that fission releases two or three neutrons.
- (Physics only) Explain how emitted neutrons can cause further fission events.
- (Physics only) Describe a chain reaction in terms of repeated fission events.
- (Physics only) Distinguish a controlled chain reaction in a nuclear reactor from an uncontrolled chain reaction.
- (Physics only) Explain that control rods can absorb neutrons to help control a reactor chain reaction.
- (Physics only) Explain that fission energy can be used to generate electricity in a nuclear power station.
- (Physics only) Interpret simple diagrams of nuclear fission and chain reactions.
Nuclear fusion (physics only)10 objectives
- (Physics only) Define nuclear fusion as the joining of two light nuclei to form a heavier nucleus.
- (Physics only) Describe fusion of hydrogen nuclei as a process that can form helium.
- (Physics only) State that nuclear fusion releases energy.
- (Physics only) Explain that fusion is the energy source of stars.
- (Physics only) Explain why fusion requires very high temperatures.
- (Physics only) Explain why high pressure or high density helps nuclei collide in fusion conditions.
- (Physics only) Explain that high temperature is needed to overcome electrostatic repulsion between nuclei.
- (Physics only) Compare nuclear fusion with nuclear fission.
- (Physics only) Explain why fusion is difficult to use as an energy source on Earth.
- (Physics only) Interpret simple diagrams of nuclei before and after fusion.
Key terms
nuclear fissionchain reactionUraniumPlutoniumneutron absorptionenergy releaseneutron emissionControlled chain reactionUncontrolled chain reactionControl RodsNeutron Absorptionnuclear fusion
Exam tips
- Understand Nuclear Fission: State connect Nuclear fission (physics only) to the exact command in the question: clearly define nuclear fission as the splitting of a large unstable nucleus during your exam.
- Remember Key Nuclei: Compare connect Nuclear fission (physics only) to the exact command in the question: memorize uranium and plutonium as the primary examples of nuclei that can undergo fission.
Common mistakes
- Misunderstanding Nuclear Fission: Remember that nuclear fission specifically refers to the splitting of a large unstable nucleus, while nuclear fusion involves the joining of two light nuclei.
- Common Misidentification of Fissionable Nuclei: Focus on memorizing the specific properties of uranium and plutonium, and practice identifying them in various contexts related to nuclear fission.
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