QOTD What is nuclear energy? 3-5 sentences

Physical Science Mr. Dunnum Nuclear Energy Physical Science Mr. Dunnum

What is Nuclear Energy? Atoms are tiny particles that make up every object in the universe. Nuclear energy is energy in the nucleus (core) of an atom. There is enormous energy in the bonds that hold the nucleus together. Breaking those bonds releases that energy.

Types of Nuclear Energy Fusion Fusion example Is the process that powers the Sun and stars Fusion is the combining of two atoms together and it generates an enormous amount of energy We are close but we are still not close to making fusion power

Types of Nuclear Energy Fission Fission picture In nuclear fission, energy is released when atoms are split or break apart to form a smaller atom.

Nuclear Fuel The fuel most widely used by nuclear plants for nuclear fission is uranium. Uranium is nonrenewable, though it is a common metal found in rocks all over the world. Nuclear plants use a certain kind of uranium, referred to as U-235. 

Half-life Is the time it takes for half of the atoms in a pure sample of the isotope to decay into another element It is a measure of the stability of an isotope; the shorter the half life, the less stable the atom

Alpha/Beta Beta Particles Alpha Particles a positively charged particle consisting of two protons and two neutrons, emitted in radioactive decay or nuclear fission(helium) Not harmful to humans unless ingested Beta Particles High speed electron omitted by a radioactive nucleus during beta decay Can cause cancer but develop relatively slow

Gamma Gamma More energetic form of electromagnetic radiation More penetrating than alpha and beta particles Nuclear weapons Causes burns, cancer, and gene mutations x-men