Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Mass defect and nuclear binding energy

Mass defect and nuclear binding energy — practice question

Some power stations use nuclear fission as their energy source.
(a)[2]

State what is meant by nuclear fission.

(b)[3]

Nuclear fission produces neutrons. In the power station, these neutrons can be taken up by rods made of boron-10. Complete the nuclear equation for the absorption of one neutron by a boron-10 nucleus with the release of an $\alpha$-particle: $^{10}_{5}\text{B} + \; \_\_\_ \rightarrow \; ^{\_\_}_{3}\text{Li} + \_\_\_.$

(c)[3]

Suggest why the rods heat up when neutrons are absorbed in the boron rods as a result of this nuclear reaction.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 8-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: the splitting of a heavy nucleus into two lighter nuclei with approximately equal mass

  • Full mark scheme, point by point
  • Step-by-step worked solution
  • Write your answer & get it marked instantly by AI