Calculating Energy of Fission in Deuterium-Tritium Reaction

In summary, the energy released from the fission of the nucleus of deuterium and tritium is 17.6 MeV, resulting in the production of a helium nucleus. To find the mass of triton, simply subtract the mass of the electron from the mass of the atom. The textbook's result of 17.8 MeV is incorrect, as the correct value is 17.6 MeV. This can be verified by using the correct mass of deuterium, which is 2.014101783u.
  • #1
Physicsissuef
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Homework Statement



Find the energy which comes out with fission of the nucleus of deuterium and tritium, so we receive like product the nucleus of helium.

mass of tritium[tex]m(\stackrel{3}{1}H)=3,016049u[/tex]
mass of the nucleus of deuterium [tex]m(\stackrel{2}{1}H)=2,013553u[/tex]
mass of the nucleus of helium [tex]m(\stackrel{4}{2}He)=4,002603u[/tex]


Homework Equations



[tex]\Delta E=\Delta m c^2[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution



The nuclear reaction

[tex]\stackrel{2}{1}H + \stackrel{3}{1}H \rightarrow \stackrel{4}{2}He + \stackrel{1}{0}n + energy[/tex]

How will I find the mass of triton( the nucleus of tritium) ?
 
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  • #2
Physicsissuef said:
How will I find the mass of triton( the nucleus of tritium) ?
Take the mass of the atom and subtract the mass of the electron. The binding energy of the electron is not enough to make a significant difference in the mass of the atom.

AM
 
  • #3
(3,016049u+2,013553u)-(4,002603u+1,008665u)=0,018334

0,018334*931,494 MeV=17,078011 MeV

And in my textbook results it is 17,8 MeV. Is their fault?
 
  • #4
The answer should be 17.6MeV, this is well known reaction to me.

And you will obtain that answer if you use [tex]m(\stackrel{2}{1}H)=2,014101783u[/tex]

Edit, link:
http://www.nndc.bnl.gov/amdc/masstables/Ame2003/mass.mas03
 
Last edited by a moderator:

What is the process of calculating the energy of fission in a deuterium-tritium reaction?

The energy of fission in a deuterium-tritium reaction can be calculated by using the formula E=mc^2 where E is the energy, m is the mass, and c is the speed of light. This formula is based on Einstein's famous theory of relativity, which states that mass and energy are equivalent and can be converted into one another.

What is the significance of calculating the energy of fission in a deuterium-tritium reaction?

Calculating the energy of fission in a deuterium-tritium reaction is important because it allows us to understand the amount of energy released during this type of nuclear reaction. This information is crucial in the development of nuclear energy and weapons, as well as in the study of nuclear physics.

How is the energy of fission in a deuterium-tritium reaction determined experimentally?

The energy of fission in a deuterium-tritium reaction can be determined experimentally by measuring the mass of the reactants and the products before and after the reaction. The difference in mass can then be used to calculate the energy released using the formula E=mc^2.

What factors can affect the accuracy of calculating the energy of fission in a deuterium-tritium reaction?

There are several factors that can affect the accuracy of calculating the energy of fission in a deuterium-tritium reaction. These include the precision of the measurements of mass, the efficiency of the reaction, and any energy losses during the reaction. It is important to carefully control and account for these factors in order to obtain accurate results.

Are there any other methods for calculating the energy of fission in a deuterium-tritium reaction?

Yes, there are other methods for calculating the energy of fission in a deuterium-tritium reaction. One method is through computer simulations using mathematical models and equations. Another method is through theoretical calculations based on known physical laws and principles. However, experimental measurements are still considered the most accurate way to calculate the energy of fission in this type of reaction.

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