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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}\text{U}. (i) How many protons a... 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
Step 3
Explain what happens when nuclear fission occurs.
Answer
During nuclear fission, the nucleus of a heavy atom, such as uranium-235, splits into two smaller nuclei along with several neutrons and a large amount of energy. This process is initiated when the nucleus captures a neutron, becoming unstable and leading to its division.
Step 4
Explain how these rods stop the nuclear reaction from getting out of control.
Answer
Control rods are made from materials that absorb neutrons, such as boron or cadmium. By inserting these rods into the reactor core, they reduce the number of free neutrons available to sustain the chain reaction. This helps in regulating the fission process and prevents the reaction from becoming too intense, thus ensuring safe operation.