3. Currently, 20% of the US energy is generated using nuclear reactors. a. Briefly describe the fission...

3. Currently, 20% of the US energy is generated using nuclear reactors.

a. Briefly describe the fission process.

b. Describe how this is used to generate electricity for our homes.

c. List the hazards associated with nuclear energy.

Solutions

Expert Solution

a. Nuclear ﬁssion is a process where the nucleus of an atom is split into two or more smaller nuclei with large amount of heat is released. When an Uranium-235 isotope is bombarded with a neutron it release a total of 3 neutrons and strontium, xenon stable elements with release of heat energy equivalent to 200 MeV (Million electron volts).

²³⁵₉₂U + ¹₀n --> ⁹⁵Sr + ¹³⁹Xe + 2 ¹₀n + 180MeV

b. Heat produced during nuclear fission to used heat water to convert as steam. The steam is used to spin large turbines that generate electricity. This electricity is supplied to homes through power grid transmission.

c. The radio active isotopes produced during fission continuously emits radio active particles. Exposure to radioactive fallout would lead to an increased risk of genetic disorders, cancer and leukemia. The Fukushima Nuclear Disaster is the latest disaster in Japan.

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queen_honey_blossom answered 1 year ago

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