A nuclear reaction is a process that involves the transformation of atomic nuclei, leading to changes in the composition of atomic nuclei and the release of a significant amount of energy. These reactions can occur naturally, such as in the Sun, or artificially, as in nuclear power plants and nuclear weapons.
There are two types of nuclear reactions: fission and fusion.
- Nuclear fission: This reaction involves the splitting of an atomic nucleus into two or more smaller nuclei. It typically occurs with heavy isotopes, such as uranium-235 or plutonium-239, when bombarded by neutrons. The fission process releases a large amount of energy and additional neutrons, which can then cause a chain reaction.
- Nuclear fusion: Fusion is the process of combining two or more light atomic nuclei to form a heavier nucleus. This reaction occurs at extremely high temperatures and pressures, similar to those found in the core of stars. Fusion reactions release an enormous amount of energy and are considered the primary source of energy in stars. Scientists are actively researching fusion as a potential clean and abundant energy source on Earth.
A chain reaction refers to a self-sustaining series of nuclear fission reactions. In a nuclear chain reaction, the neutrons released during fission can go on to strike and split other atomic nuclei, releasing more neutrons and initiating further fission reactions. This creates a continuous cycle of fission reactions, generating a large amount of energy. In a controlled chain reaction, such as in a nuclear power plant, the rate of fission reactions is carefully controlled to prevent an uncontrolled release of energy. In an uncontrolled chain reaction, like in a nuclear bomb, the fission reactions rapidly escalate, resulting in an explosive release of energy.
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