Question

Nuclear fission of ²³⁵U is a chain process. Justify.

Answer 1

• Nuclear fission of ²³⁵U occurs when nucleus absorbs neutron. When a uranium nucleus absorbs neutron, it breaks into two lighter fragments and releases energy (heat), more neutrons, and other radiation.
• When one uranium 235 nucleus undergoes fission, three neutrons are emitted.
• These neutrons emitted in fission cause more fission of the uranium nuclei which yield more neutrons. These neutrons again bring forth fission producing further neutrons.
• The process continues indefinitely leading to chain reaction which continues even after the removal of bombarding neutrons.