Nuclear Fission and Fusion
Summary
Nuclear fission and nuclear fusion are two very important concepts in nuclear physics. Nuclear fission is a nuclear reaction in which the nucleus of an atom splits into smaller parts often producing free neutrons and lighter nuclei. Fission can release large amounts of energy both by way of electromagnetic radiation and kinetic energy of the fragments. U235 (Uranium 235) when made to undergo fission by converting it to U236 splits into Krypton92 and Barium141 and 3 free neutrons. The free neutrons go further and split other U235 atoms and the chain reaction continues. This process is the basis of the working of a nuclear power plant. Nuclear fusion is the process by which multiple like-charged atomic nuclei join together to form a heavier nucleus. It is accompanied by the release or absorption of energy. This process has resulted in the formation of Sun and many other stars.
Keywords: Nuclear fission, nuclear fusion, nuclear physics, atomic energy, neutrons, Protons, kinetic energy, nuclear power plant, Sun
