U236 Fission: Q Value & Symmetric Fission to 118Ru

[matt222]

I have question regarding the fission of 236U,my question is why we have the Q value (185MeV) of the symmetric fission of U236 (two 118Ru) is less than the Q value (188MeV) for the fission into 96Sr and 140Xe

 

[RocketSci5KN]

Less mass was converted to energy.

 

[raining Pete]

Hi there,

The difference in Q value between the symmetric fission of 236U into two 118Ru and the asymmetric fission into 96Sr and 140Xe can be explained by the difference in nuclear binding energies. When a nucleus undergoes fission, it releases energy due to the breaking of strong nuclear bonds. However, the amount of energy released depends on the difference in binding energies between the initial nucleus and the resulting nuclei.

In the case of symmetric fission into two 118Ru, the resulting nuclei have similar binding energies to the initial nucleus, so the energy released is relatively small. On the other hand, the asymmetric fission into 96Sr and 140Xe results in nuclei with significantly different binding energies, leading to a larger energy release.

Additionally, the process of fission involves the repulsion of positively charged protons, which can also affect the amount of energy released. This repulsion is stronger in the asymmetric fission, leading to a higher energy release.

I hope this helps to answer your question. Let me know if you have any further inquiries.