Fission product

Fission product refers to the atomic fragments left after a large atomic nucleus undergoes nuclear fission. Typically, a large nucleus like that of uranium splits into two smaller nuclei, along with a few neutrons and a large amount of energy.

Overview

Fission products are the atomic fragments left after a large atomic nucleus fissions. The fission process often produces free neutrons and photons (in the form of gamma rays), and releases a large amount of energy. The fission products are usually highly radioactive, due to the excess of neutrons left over from the reaction.

Types of Fission Products

Fission products can be classified into two groups: light fission products and heavy fission products. Light fission products are those with atomic masses less than 140, while heavy fission products have atomic masses greater than 140.

Light Fission Products

Light fission products are typically isotopes of elements in the periodic table from zinc to palladium. They are usually produced in high yield and are highly radioactive.

Heavy Fission Products

Heavy fission products are typically isotopes of elements from tellurium to plutonium. They are usually produced in lower yield and are less radioactive than light fission products.

Fission Product Yield

Fission product yield refers to the number of a particular type of fission product produced per fission. Yield is usually expressed as a percentage of the total number of fissions.

Decay of Fission Products

Fission products typically undergo beta decay, where a neutron is converted into a proton, an electron, and an electron antineutrino. This process reduces the number of neutrons in the nucleus and increases the number of protons, thus changing the element.

Fission Products in Nuclear Reactors

In a nuclear reactor, fission products are a significant source of radiation and heat. They are also a significant source of radioactivity in spent nuclear fuel.

Fission Products in Nuclear Weapons

In a nuclear weapon, fission products are a significant source of the weapon's destructive energy. They also contribute to the radioactive fallout produced by the weapon.

See Also

• Nuclear fission
• Nuclear reactor
• Nuclear weapon
• Radioactive decay
• Beta decay