Calculating Energy Released by Fission of 1g of U-235

In summary, nuclear fission is a process in which the nucleus of an atom splits into two smaller nuclei, releasing a large amount of energy. This energy is derived from the conversion of mass into energy, as described by Einstein's famous equation E=mc^2. Nuclear fission is used to generate electricity by producing heat, which is then used to generate steam and power turbines. The most commonly used element in nuclear fission reactions is uranium-235, but other elements such as plutonium-239 and thorium-232 can also be used. While nuclear fission can be a safe and reliable source of energy when properly managed, it also poses risks such as radiation leaks and the disposal of nuclear waste.
  • #1
kingstar
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Homework Statement



Estimate the energy released, in Joules, by the fission of 1g of U-235 according to the equation:


[itex]^{235}_{92}{U}[/itex] + [itex]^{1}_{0}{n}[/itex] → [itex]^{144}_{56}{Ba}[/itex] + [itex]^{90}_{36}{Kr}[/itex] + 2[itex]^{1}_{0}{n}[/itex] + Q

atomic masses:

[itex]^{235}_{92}{U}[/itex] = 235.04438u

[itex]^{144}_{56}{Ba}[/itex] = 143.92279u

[itex]^{90}_{36}{Kr}[/itex] = 89.92089u

[itex]^{1}_{0}{n}[/itex] = 1.00866u

Avogadro's number = 6.023 x 1023
1u = 931MeV
1MeV = 1.6 x 10-13J

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



(235.04438u + 1.00866u) - (143.92279u + 89.92089u + 1.00866u + 1.00866u) = 0.19204u

0.19204u x 931 = 178.78924MeV
178.78924 x 1.6 x 10-13J = 2.86 x 10-11

Do I then do (6.023 x 1023/235) x 2.86 x 10-11 = 7.33 x 1010J

For the final answer?

Thanks
 
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  • #2
Looks good to me.
 
  • #3
barryj said:
Looks good to me.


Thanks.
 

FAQ: Calculating Energy Released by Fission of 1g of U-235

What is nuclear fission?

Nuclear fission is a process in which the nucleus of an atom splits into two smaller nuclei, releasing a large amount of energy in the form of heat and radiation.

What is the source of energy in fission?

The source of energy in fission is the conversion of mass into energy, as described by Albert Einstein's famous equation E=mc^2. The mass lost during the fission process is converted into a tremendous amount of energy.

How is nuclear fission used to generate electricity?

In nuclear power plants, the heat produced by fission is used to generate steam, which then drives turbines to produce electricity. This process is known as nuclear fission power.

What elements are typically used in nuclear fission reactions?

The most commonly used element in nuclear fission reactions is uranium-235, although other elements such as plutonium-239 and thorium-232 can also be used.

Is nuclear fission a safe source of energy?

When properly controlled and managed, nuclear fission can be a safe and reliable source of energy. However, it does come with inherent risks, such as potential radiation leaks and the storage and disposal of nuclear waste.

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