Limitations of fission decay paths

In summary, the conversation discusses the factors that determine the possible isotopes produced in a fission reaction. These factors include the mass numbers of the isotopes and the need for the number of protons to remain constant. Additionally, the energy requirements for fission are also mentioned, with some heavy nuclides requiring MeV to split and others being able to be fissioned with thermal neutrons.
  • #1
NotASmurf
150
2
Hey all,

For a fission reaction of the type neutron + a -> b + c, where a,b,c are isotopes and the sum of b + c 's mass numbers is a's mass number + 1. What else other than mass number factors into what b and c can be given a?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
The number of protons has to stay constant, and the overall reaction has to be possible in terms of energy.

Often fission releases neutrons in addition to the large fission products.
 
  • #3
mfb said:
possible in terms of energy
Doesn't fission of heavy nuclides use roughly (same order of magnitude) MeV to split?
 
  • #4
Some of them can be fissioned with thermal neutrons (meV), and fission of uranium and neighbor nuclei typically releases ~200 MeV.
 

FAQ: Limitations of fission decay paths

What are the limitations of fission decay paths?

The main limitation of fission decay paths is that they can only occur in heavy nuclei with atomic numbers above 90, also known as actinides. This means that fission reactions cannot be sustained in lighter elements, such as hydrogen or helium.

Can fission reactions be controlled?

Yes, fission reactions can be controlled by using control rods to absorb neutrons and regulate the rate of the reaction. This is important in nuclear power plants to prevent the reaction from becoming uncontrollable and causing a meltdown.

Are there any safety concerns related to fission reactions?

Yes, fission reactions can be dangerous if not properly controlled. If the reaction is allowed to proceed too quickly, it can release a large amount of energy in a short period of time, leading to a nuclear explosion. Additionally, the radioactive byproducts of fission can be harmful to human health if not handled and disposed of properly.

Can fission reactions be used for anything other than nuclear power?

Yes, fission reactions can also be used to create nuclear weapons. Additionally, fission can be harnessed for medical purposes, such as in cancer treatment using radiation therapy.

Are there any potential solutions to the limitations of fission decay paths?

Scientists are currently researching alternative nuclear reactions, such as fusion, which does not have the same limitations as fission. However, fusion reactions are still in the early stages of development and have not yet been successfully harnessed for practical use.

Similar threads

I Fission vs Cluster Decay: What is the Difference?
Replies
4
Views
1K
I Binding energy, fusion and fission
Replies
3
Views
2K
I Why is Proton Radiation this Rare in Nuclear Fission Decay?
Replies
9
Views
3K
B Basic definition: Nuclear Fusion & Fission
Replies
5
Views
2K
I Energy reduction/deflection of beta particles due to isotope geometry
Replies
2
Views
1K
I Fissionable elements for Fission
Replies
2
Views
2K
B Account for Coulomb repulsion in nuclear fission energy?
Replies
13
Views
3K
B Nuclear Reactions: Basics for Beginners
Replies
3
Views
2K
I How often would a ϕ meson decay to a electron-positron pair?
Replies
2
Views
2K
I Fission of 238U with high energy neutrons & other questions
Replies
12
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top