Physics P2 - Energy from the nucleus

Nuclear Fission
1. Energy is released in a nuclear reactor due to nuclear fission
2. A chain reaction can occur
3. A nucleus releases 2/3 neutrons
  1. It releases energy (radiation and kinetic)
    1. A chain reaction means a steady release of energy is produced in a reactor
Inside a nuclear reactor
1. A nuclear reactor contains control rods and fuel rods and high pressured water
  1. The water is a moderator that slows down the collisions so it will be effective
2. Control rods absorb extra neutrons - this controls the chain
3. The water acts as a coolant and is pumped trhough the core
4. The core is made of thick steel to withstand the extreme temperatures within
Nuclear fusion
1. Two small nuclei release energy when they fuse together and form a larger nucleus

Resource summary

	Created by BubbleandSqueak over 9 years ago