Module 8
1. Module 8
1.18. Page 3
Module 8—Nuclear Decay, Energy, and the Standard Model of the Atom
Reflect and Connect
© EFDA-JET; Photo: CP96j-110
Nuclear energy comes in one of two varieties:
- fission of large nuclei like uranium-235
- fusion of small nuclei like tritium and deuterium
The fission of uranium-235 is widely used in reactors, such as the CANDU reactor. Fusion does not produce the unstable and biologically dangerous daughter nuclei of fission. Fusion produces stable helium atoms. Research is being conducted to find a technological solution to sustain the fusion reaction. However, a sustained and practical use of fusion is yet to be achieved, but it holds great promise as an infinite source of clean, environmentally safe energy.
Module 8: Lesson 3 Assignment
Remember to submit your answer to RC 1 to your teacher as part of your Module 8: Lesson 1 Assignment.
RC 1. Complete the following table comparing and contrasting various issues related to nuclear fusion and fission.
Issue |
Fusion |
Fission |
How is the change in binding energy achieved? |
|
|
What is the relative size of the nuclei used as the fuel source? |
|
|
How abundant is the fuel source? |
|
|
What is the environmental impact of the reaction? |
|
|
How safe is the technology? |
|
|
How easy is it to sustain the reaction? |
|
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Module 8: Lesson 3 Assignment
Remember to submit the Module 8: Lesson 3 Assignment to your teacher.