Nuclear reactions are responsible for releasing large amounts of energy, such as in nuclear fission and fusion, processes in which atomic nuclei split and merge, respectively. From this context, answer: a) Describe the differences between nuclear fission and fusion, considering the elements involved and the conditions in which they occur. b) Name two particles or radiations that can be emitted during a nuclear reaction. c) Explain the role of nuclear reactions in the formation of new chemical species.

In a nuclear reactor, the fission of a uranium-235 nucleus can be represented by equation 1: U-235 + n-1 -> Ba-141 + Kr-92 + 3n-1 + energy. Identify the emitted particles and justify how the nuclear equation maintains the conservation of mass and charge. Additionally, explain succinctly the difference between nuclear fission and fusion, considering the energetic aspects and the necessary conditions for each of these reactions.

 occurs when it is bombarded by neutrons.

The Chernobyl disaster occurred in 1986, releasing large amounts of radioactive particles into the atmosphere. Nuclear power plants use radioactive elements to produce electrical energy through nuclear reactions. Based on the knowledge of radioactivity concepts, choose the correct alternative.

Consider the following statements: I - The penetration power of alpha radiation (α) is greater than that of gamma radiation (γ). II - The loss of a beta particle (β) by an atom results in the formation of an atom with a higher atomic number. III - The emission of gamma radiation from the nucleus of an atom does not alter the atomic number or the mass number of this atom. IV - The decay of ²²⁶Ra to ²¹⁴Bi involves the consecutive emission of three alpha particles (α) and two betas (β). Of the statements presented, only the following are correct:

Statement I is incorrect because gamma radiation (γ) has greater penetration power than alpha radiation (α). Statement II is correct, as when an atom emits a beta particle (β), its atomic number increases by one unit. Statement III is also correct, as the emission of gamma radiation does not alter the atomic number or mass number of the atom. Statement IV is incorrect, as the decay of ²²⁶Ra to ²¹⁴Bi involves the emission of four alpha particles (α) and two betas (β). Therefore, the correct statements are II and III.

The energy released during nuclear reactions can be used to generate electrical energy, as in the case of nuclear power plants. These nuclear power plants have as their basic principle the generation of heat through nuclear reaction, which is used to heat water and generate steam to drive turbines that power electric generators. Which of the alternatives below correctly describes the basic principle of nuclear power plants?

Question bank: Nuclear Reaction: Introduction

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