Where does the energy from Nuclear Fission comes from?

In summary, the fission of Uranium 235 results in the production of Barium 141, Krypton 92, and 3 neutrons. Using the equation E=mc2, we can calculate the energy released by the fission reaction. While the difference in mass between the reactants and products may seem negligible, it actually corresponds to an energy release of 173 MeV, which is typically seen in U-235 decay.
  • #1
Leronira
11
0
Looking at the fission of Uranium 235, the typical end product will be Barium 141 and Krypton 92, and 3 neutrons.
From this, we can calculate the energy that the fission gives off, by taking the difference in mass of the product and "reactant", and use the equation of E=mc2.
But what i see from the above, there isn't any difference in mass. Or am I missing out something here? Someone enlighten me please. Thanks
 
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  • #2
There is a difference in mass, just a very small one...for these calculations, you can not use the usual approximation that mass is just number of protons plus number of neutrons.
235.0439299-140.914411-91.926156-2(1.0086649)=.186amu

In energy this is equivalent to 173MeV which is around the 200MeV usually released by U-235 decay.
 
  • #3
OHH...so i have to look all the way down to many decimal places inorder to see the difference in mass...ok..thanks alot...=D
 

1. Where does the energy from nuclear fission come from?

The energy from nuclear fission comes from the splitting of atoms. In this process, the nucleus of an atom is bombarded with neutrons, causing it to split into smaller nuclei and release energy in the form of heat and radiation.

2. How does nuclear fission work?

Nuclear fission works by bombarding a large unstable nucleus, such as uranium, with neutrons. This causes the nucleus to split into smaller, more stable nuclei, releasing a large amount of energy in the process. This energy is then harnessed and used to generate electricity.

3. Is nuclear fission a renewable source of energy?

No, nuclear fission is not considered a renewable source of energy. While the fuel used in nuclear fission, such as uranium, is abundant, it is not a naturally occurring element and must be mined and processed. Additionally, nuclear waste produced during the fission process is highly radioactive and must be safely stored for thousands of years, making it unsustainable in the long term.

4. What are the benefits of nuclear fission energy?

Nuclear fission energy has several benefits, including its ability to generate large amounts of energy with relatively small amounts of fuel, its low carbon emissions compared to fossil fuels, and its reliability as a baseload power source. Additionally, nuclear fission does not produce air pollution or greenhouse gases, making it a cleaner energy option.

5. What are the risks associated with nuclear fission?

There are several risks associated with nuclear fission, including the potential for accidents and meltdowns, the production of radioactive waste, and the potential for nuclear weapons proliferation. Additionally, the mining, processing, and disposal of nuclear fuel can also have negative environmental and health impacts. Proper safety measures and regulations are necessary to mitigate these risks.

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