9TH GRADE · NUCLEAR PHYSICS
Binding energy, fission and reactor
Mass defect, chain reaction, critical conditions and nuclear power.
The entire theory of the lesson is collected here; you can read it without an account. In interactive mode, the same theory appears as cards, followed by questions. with checking the answer and task, and progress is saved.
Basic Concepts
Fission and chain reaction
A heavy nucleus can split, releasing energy and neutrons that can cause new fissions.
Self-maintenance requires critical conditions; The critical mass depends not only on the amount of substance, but also on the shape, composition and loss of neutrons.
Mass defect and binding energy
The mass of a bound nucleus is less than the sum of the masses of free nucleons, and the difference corresponds to the binding energy.
Higher binding energy per nucleon usually means a more stable nucleus.
Nuclear reactor
The device maintains a controlled chain reaction and removes heat for subsequent generation of electricity.
Nuclear power provides a lot of energy with low direct carbon emissions, but requires strict safety, waste management and accident prevention.
Physical quantities
Mass defect
The difference between the sum of the masses of free nucleons and the mass of the bound nucleus.
Unit: atomic mass unit ·
Communication energy
The energy required to split a nucleus into free nucleons.
Unit: joule ·
Lesson formulas
Communication energy
The binding energy is equal to the mass defect multiplied by the square of the speed of light.
Related formulas
The same formulas in the reference, with symbols and units.
Tasks on the topic
Statements, answer options and the walkthrough.