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The fuel in a nuclear power station is an isotope of uranium - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 2 - 2013 - Paper 1
Question 2
The fuel in a nuclear power station is an isotope of uranium. (a) The symbol for a nucleus of this uranium isotope is $^{235}_{92}U$. (i) How many protons are ther... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The fuel in a nuclear power station is an isotope of uranium - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 2 - 2013 - Paper 1
Step 1
Step 2
Name another particle in a nucleus of this isotope.
Answer
Another particle in a nucleus of this isotope is the neutron. The number of neutrons in this case can be determined by subtracting the atomic number from the mass number:
Number of neutrons = Mass number - Atomic number = 235 - 92 = 143.
Step 3
Explain what happens when nuclear fission occurs.
Answer
During nuclear fission, the nucleus of an atom splits into two or more smaller nuclei, along with a release of energy and additional neutrons. This process can initiate a chain reaction if the released neutrons strike other nuclei, causing them to also undergo fission.
Step 4
Explain how these rods stop the nuclear reaction from getting out of control.
Answer
Control rods are made of materials that absorb neutrons, such as boron or cadmium. By inserting these rods into the reactor core, the number of free neutrons is reduced, thereby decreasing the rate of the nuclear fission reaction. This prevents the reaction from getting out of control and ensures safe operation of the reactor.