Nuclear fission

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Nuclear fission is the process by which a large nucleus is split into two smaller nuclei.[1]

The fission of a nucleus releases an enormous amount of energy, which can be harnessed in a nuclear reactor to generate electrical power. Nuclear fission can also be used in a destructive fashion, such as in a nuclear weapon. Fission also releases neutrons which can then impact and cause other nuclei to split, causing a chain reaction. The two most common fissile elemnts used in nuclear power applications and weapons applications are uranium 235 and plutonium 239.

A critical mass of the right radioactive material is required to begin this chain reaction. Once a critical mass of the proper radioactive material of good enough purity is acheived, the crhain reaction begins.

References

  1. Wile, Dr. Jay L. Exploring Creation With Physical Science. Apologia Educational Ministries, Inc. 1999, 2000