Nuclear Energy

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Nuclear Energy Fission and Fusion Nuclear Power
Plants Chapter 11 Section 3
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The Atom
The atom is made up of protons, neutrons, and
electrons. There is a nucleus at the center of
the atom surrounded by the electrons in
orbit. The nucleus contains the protons and
neutrons which are held together by nuclear
forces.
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Fission and Fusion There are two types of nuclear
reactions-fission and fusion. Both types release
energy. This energy can be used to generate
electricity (power plant) or destroy a city
(nuclear bomb)
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Nuclear Fission Fission- The splitting of the
nucleus into smaller pieces. The process an atom
with an unstable nucleus must be used (Uranium).
A neutron bullet is fired at an atom. When the
neutron hits the nucleus, it splits it in two.
More neutrons come flying off and the chain
reaction continues.
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Nuclear Fusion Fusion- the combining of two
nuclei to form a single nucleus. The process two
hydrogen nuclei combine to create helium. The
helium has slightly less mass so the remaining is
converted into energy. This is the process
which keeps the sun burning!
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Controlled and Uncontrolled Chain
Reactions Controlled Power plant Uncontrolled
Bomb
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First nuclear reactor called Chicago Pile 1 Built
on a racket court at Chicago University by Enrico
Fermi in 1942
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Fuel Rods
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Nuclear Power Plants
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1 pellet of uranium in a nuclear power plant is
equivalent to 1780 pounds of coal 149 gallons
of oil 157 gallons of gasoline All the fuel
pellets in one nuclear power plant can produce
enough electricity to serve the needs of 750,000
people the size of a small city.
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Problems with Nuclear Power Plants

• Waste
• Meltdown!!
• Some benefits of nuclear power
• No pollution
• Does not use natural resources

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