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Both fusion and fission reactions are very critical for our lives. These two reactions are involved in star burning reactions to sun glowing processes. Fission and fusion both have the capacity to release energy due to the involvement of nuclear matter called binding energy. Nuclear fission is the process through which an atomic nucleus is subdivided into smaller fragments, such as Uranium or Plutonium splits into smaller fragments. This process exhibits an excess amount of energy liberation. At the end of this article, you will be able to understand the minutes of the fission process.
Fission and fusion
Fission and fusion both have the capacity to release energy due to the involvement of nuclear matter called binding energy.
Definitions & concept
Lise Meitner and Otto Frisch, German physicists, were the first to use the word ‘fission’ in the year 1939 and defined it as the process of disintegration of heavy elements into lighter with approximately equal size. The discovery of this reaction led to the establishment of a new era – the ‘Atomic Age’.
Nuclear fission is the process through which an atomic nucleus is subdivided into smaller fragments, such as Uranium or Plutonium splits into smaller fragments. This process exhibits an excess amount of energy liberation.
Generally, these smaller fragments are almost equal to each other. Two or three neutrons are released during the process of fission. However, the sum total of these smaller particles is lesser than the original mass. As per Einstein’s equation, the missing particle is converted into energy. For calculating the released energy during the mass destruction for both fission and fusion processes, Einstein’s equation is used, which is:
E = mc2
in which m is mass (in kilograms); c represents the speed of light (metres/sec); and E is energy (joules)
During this process, huge energy is liberated, new radioactive particles are formed, and various neutrons are released out. Nuclear fission has the capacity to create destructible consequences for both living and non-living beings.
Merits
Another source of energy
Energy released from the fission process is used as an alternative source of energy, and it is considered as ‘future energy’s source’.
Satisfying the needs
Energy produced in the process is utilised to satisfy the needs of the generation.
Help in vanishing threats
With respect to fossil fuels, it is less polluted and does not produce any greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, which affects the ecosystem.
Demerits
Radiation exposure
During the fission reactions, the emitted radiations are very dangerous to both living and non-living beings. People who are exposed to these radiations are very susceptible to risks like poisoning, cancer, and other dangerous diseases.
High vulnerability
The people who are working in nuclear power reactor plants are at a very high risk of infections. The energy produced in these plants is used in developing nuclear weapons that are very hazardous in nature. A single accident may lead to huge damage.
Contamination
There should be strict measures taken and followed by nuclear power plants to avoid any mishap. The leftover from the plants is highly radioactive and can mix with the water bodies and lead to dangerous diseases and an increased rate of mortality.
Another form of fusion reaction
Another type of fusion reaction is nuclear fusion through which two or more nuclei of light elements are combined to form heavier elements leading to the release of an excessive amount of energy.
Distinguish between nuclear fusion and fission
Conclusion
The fission process and its advancement support the development of the nation and globally as well. This process plays a critical role in many cases. Nuclear fusion and fission involve the reactions between the nuclei of heavy and lighter-weight elements. On the other hand, it also creates harmful effects on the environment and the health of living beings. Technology advancement and development support growth. However, it also brings some negative consequences.
