We’re asked to calculate the quantity of energy produced per gram of U-235 for the neutron-induced fission of U-235 to form Xe-144 and Sr-90.
Recall that Nuclear Fission is the splitting of a heavy nucleus to form two or lighter ones.
Neutron-induced fission is when you shoot a neutron particle at the nucleus and that’s what splits the nucleus into smaller ones. Therefore, a neutron is one of the reactants.
To calculate the energy produced for the reaction per gram of U-235, we’re going to use the following steps:
Step 1: Write a balanced nuclear reaction
Step 2: Calculate the mass defect (Δm).
Step 3: Calculate the mass defect (Δm) in kg.
Step 4: Calculate the energy produced (E).
Step 1: Write a balanced nuclear reaction
Reactants: U-235 and neutron
Products: Xe-144 and Sr-90
*The numbers denote the mass number of each element
Reaction:
*The numbers written below the mass numbers are the atomic numbers of each element and can be found on the periodic table.
Calculate the quantity of energy produced per gram of U-235 (atomic mass = 235.043922 amu) for the neutron-induced fission of U-235 to form Xe-144 (atomic mass = 143.9385 amu) and Sr-90 (atomic mass =89.907738 amu).
Frequently Asked Questions
What scientific concept do you need to know in order to solve this problem?
Our tutors have indicated that to solve this problem you will need to apply the Mass Defect concept. If you need more Mass Defect practice, you can also practice Mass Defect practice problems.
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Based on our data, we think this problem is relevant for Professor Slayden's class at GMU.