Chapter 20, Problem 19E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

“Advantages and disadvantages of using fission to generate electricity” should be identified.

Concept Introduction:

A nuclear fission reaction takes place when a heavy nucleus is bombarded by high speed particles like neutrons causing breakdown of heavy nucleus into smaller fragments. This split of heavy nucleus into smaller pieces causes emission of three neutrons and large amount of energy. The produced energy can be used to heat water in a reactor and ultimately produces electricity. Generation of electricity using nuclear fission as a source of power has both advantages and disadvantages which are explained below.