Does Uranium-235 Always Fission in to Kr-89 and Ba-144?

In summary, the fission products of U-235 produce atomic numbers that must equal 92 and total masses of either 234 or 233, depending on the number of free neutrons produced. This can result in the formation of elements such as Br and La or Zr-100 and Te-134, with the latter being a common result of thermal fission. In fast fission, the fission is more symmetric and leads to higher proportions of transition elements, such as Pd. Plots from NNDC at BNL show the nuclide yields from thermal fission of U-235.
  • #1
nwfusor
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If it does, why is that so?
 
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  • #2
No, that is one of numerous possibilities.

The atomic numbers of the fission products must = 92, and the masses would sum to 234 or 233, depending on whether fission produces 2 or 3 free neutrons. One could find Br and La, or Zr-100 and Te-134, which is one of the most probable results for thermal fission. In fast fissions, the fission is more symmetric and one will find higher proportions of transition elements centered around Pd.

Plots from NNDC at BNL - showing nuclide yields (fractions) from thermal fisson of U-235.

http://www.nndc.bnl.gov/chart/temp/z52n81zl1c235ufy249.png
http://www.nndc.bnl.gov/chart/reCenter.jsp?z=52&n=82
http://www.nndc.bnl.gov/chart/temp/z40n58zl1c235ufy5304.png
http://www.nndc.bnl.gov/chart/reCenter.jsp?z=40&n=60
 
Last edited by a moderator:

1. What is uranium-235 and why does it fission into Kr-89 and Ba-144?

Uranium-235 is a radioactive isotope of uranium that is commonly used as a fuel in nuclear reactors. When it undergoes fission, it splits into smaller atoms, including Kr-89 and Ba-144, and releases a large amount of energy.

2. Are there any other elements or isotopes that uranium-235 can fission into?

Yes, uranium-235 can also fission into a variety of other elements and isotopes, depending on the conditions of the reaction. Some of the most common products of uranium-235 fission include xenon-135, strontium-90, and krypton-87.

3. Does uranium-235 always fission into Kr-89 and Ba-144?

No, uranium-235 does not always fission into Kr-89 and Ba-144. The products of fission depend on a number of factors, including the energy of the neutron that triggers the reaction and the presence of other elements or isotopes that can absorb or capture neutrons.

4. How does fission of uranium-235 occur?

Fission of uranium-235 occurs when a high-energy neutron collides with a uranium-235 nucleus, causing it to split into two smaller nuclei. This process also releases more neutrons, which can go on to trigger other fission reactions, creating a chain reaction.

5. What are the implications of uranium-235 fission into Kr-89 and Ba-144?

The fission of uranium-235 into Kr-89 and Ba-144 has important implications for nuclear energy and weapons. The energy released during fission can be harnessed for electricity generation, but it can also be used to create powerful nuclear weapons. Additionally, the radioactive byproducts of fission can pose health and environmental risks if not properly handled and disposed of.

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