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

Mass defect and nuclear binding energy — practice question

Some power stations obtain their energy from nuclear fission.
(a)[2]

State what nuclear fission means.

(b)[3]

The nuclear fission reaction produces neutrons. In the power station, the neutrons may be taken up by rods made of boron-10. Complete the nuclear equation for the capture of one neutron by a boron-10 nucleus with emission of an $\alpha$-particle: $^{10}_{5}\text{B} + \ldots \rightarrow \ldots ^{7}_{3}\text{Li} + \ldots$.

(c)[3]

Suggest why the boron rods get hot when neutrons are absorbed in them during 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: A heavy nucleus splits into two lighter nuclei of approximately equal mass

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