BRAINCAKENuclear Energy
Revision notes for Nuclear Energy in AQA Physics (7408). Read the start of any lesson here, then sign in free for the whole lesson, the R.E.C.I.P.E. recall steps and the quiz.
- Mass-Energy EquivalenceIn radioactive decay, energy is released.
- Strong Nuclear ForceWe can estimate the size of the strong nuclear force by working out the force of repulsion of the protons in the nucleus using Coulomb's Law.
- Binding Energy and Nuclear StabilityWhen bonds are formed between nucleons, the energy released is called the binding energy.
- Quantum TunnellingIn the nucleus, neutrons and protons are bound together by the strong nuclear force.
- Nuclear FissionFission of the uranium-235 (or plutonium-238) nuclei can be induced by bombarding the nucleus with neutrons.
- Nuclear FusionThe fusion of two smaller nuclei results in an increase in the binding energy of the product as long as the mass number is less than 56.
- Nuclear ReactorsThe thermonuclear reactor in a nuclear power station contains uranium-235 fuel rods in a steel vessel called the reactor core.
- SafetyThe thick steel vessels must withstand the high temperature and pressure of the reactor core which is enclosed in thick concrete walls so that gamma…