Science Project on “Understanding Nuclear Fission”, Project Experiment Topics on Energy in Different Forms for Class 8, 9, 10 and 12 Students.
Understanding Nuclear Fission
Materials Required:
- Dominoes
- A ruler
- A flat table
When the nuclei of atoms are combined (called Fusion) or split (called Fission), energy is formed. This is known as Nuclear energy, which is released through heat, light or some other radiation. Nuclear energy is generally used to produce electricity by converting water to steam, thereby operating huge turbine generators.
The process of nuclear fission causes a chain reaction. Uranium 235 or a similar radioactive element is used in this reaction. At the beginning, two neutrons are created, which strike another two neutrons. This process just goes on and continues to grow.
To see the representation of such a fission before your eyes, follow the diagram and stand dominoes in the same pattern, to cause a chain reaction. As one falls, it hits another and this way it keeps going on and on and in the process all the dominoes are stuck down. Make only 4-5 rows, otherwise the dominoes get so packed, that they start getting into each others’ way.
In the case of an actual nuclear fission, the process can be slowed down or even stopped for that matter, with the introduction of cadmium or boron bars. The reason behind inserting these dampening rods is that they absorb neutrons and in the process slow down the process. To see an example of this, insert a ruler between two dominoes in successive rows and then topple the first domino over. You will see that the reaction will stop when it reaches the ruler, just like it happens in a nuclear fission.