Fission and Fusion

• What is nuclear fission?

  Splitting a large, unstable nucleus
• What is the purpose of nuclear fission?

  To release energy from large atoms
• Which elements are commonly involved in nuclear fission?

  Uranium and plutonium
• What happens during nuclear fission?

  Large atoms split into smaller atoms
• Why does nuclear fission rarely happen spontaneously?

  It requires specific conditions to occur
• What must a nucleus do before it can split?

  Absorb a neutron
• What is released when an atom splits during fission?

  Energy and neutrons
• What happens to neutrons released during fission?

  They can cause further fission reactions
• How can a chain reaction occur in nuclear fission?

  By neutrons causing more fissions
• What is the role of control rods in a nuclear reactor?

  To absorb excess neutrons
• What is nuclear fusion?

  Joining small nuclei to form a larger nucleus
• How does nuclear fusion differ from fission?

  Fusion combines nuclei, fission splits them
• What conditions are necessary for nuclear fusion to occur?

  High temperature and pressure
• Why is nuclear fusion considered a potential energy source?

  It produces more energy than fission
• What is the primary challenge of harnessing nuclear fusion?

  Achieving and maintaining necessary conditions
• What is the main product of nuclear fusion?

  Helium and energy
• How does the energy output of fusion compare to fission?

  Fusion releases significantly more energy
• What is a potential application of nuclear fusion?

  Clean energy production
• What is the significance of nuclear weapons?

  They utilize fission or fusion for destruction
• How do uncontrolled chain reactions relate to nuclear weapons?

  They lead to explosive energy release
• What is the main concern regarding nuclear energy?

  Safety and radioactive waste management
• What is the role of neutrons in nuclear reactions?

  They initiate and sustain reactions
• Why is nuclear energy considered a low-carbon energy source?

  It produces minimal greenhouse gas emissions
• How does public perception affect nuclear energy development?

  Concerns about safety can hinder progress
• What is the future potential of nuclear fusion?

  It could provide abundant clean energy
• What is a major advantage of nuclear fission over fossil fuels?

  Higher energy density
• How does nuclear energy contribute to climate change mitigation?

  By reducing reliance on fossil fuels
• What are the implications of nuclear accidents?

  Long-term environmental and health impacts
• What is the significance of the term "nuclear weapon proliferation"?

  Spread of nuclear weapons technology
• What is the main goal of nuclear energy research?

  To improve safety and efficiency
• How does nuclear energy compare to renewable energy sources?

  It provides consistent energy output
• What are the challenges of transitioning to nuclear energy?

  High costs and public opposition
• What is the role of international treaties in nuclear energy?

  To promote safety and prevent proliferation
• What is the primary concern with nuclear waste?

  Long-term storage and safety
• How does nuclear energy impact energy independence?

  It reduces reliance on foreign oil
• What is the significance of advancements in nuclear technology?

  They can enhance safety and efficiency
• What is the relationship between nuclear energy and climate policy?

  Nuclear energy is part of low-carbon strategies
• What is the main advantage of nuclear fusion over fission?

  Less radioactive waste produced
• How does nuclear energy contribute to sustainable development?

  By providing a stable energy source
• What are the potential risks of nuclear energy?

  Accidents and radioactive waste management