Nuclear Reactions

By Kamryn Pully
 Differences
Radioactive Decay- the unstable nuclei of these isotopes emit
particles, or release energy, to become stable isotopes.
Fission- the process of splitting heavier nuclei into lighter nuclei.
Fusion- Energy that can be obtained when very light nuclei are
combined to form heavier nuclei.
 The Occurrence
For Fission to occur a heavier nuclei must split into a lighter nuclei. While for Fusion to
occur light nuclei must combine at extremely high temperatures to form heavier nuclei
and release energy.
 Natural Sources & Exposure Of Radiation
Nuclear Radiation is all around you naturally. The radiation that is
naturally formed is called Background Radiation. Background
Radiation can come from the sun, soil, rocks, and plants.
Overexposure to radiation can be rather harmful human made sources
can contribute to over exposure. These human made sources are
things such as computers, smoke detectors, and X- Rays.
 Beneficial Uses Of Nuclear Radiation
Some common uses of nuclear radiation include medical diagnosis
and treatment, smoke detectors, manufacturing, and agriculture.
Radiation may be harmful at extensive amounts but it may be the next
thing that can help stop cancer. It also helps detect many other
diseases.
 Risks From Nuclear Radiation
Nuclear Radiation has many benefits but with that comes many risks
such as cancer due to high exposure, harmful gases being given off,
and the killing of plant life.
Many of these risks can be avoided with special clothing, dosimeters,
and by installing vents into buildings to draw the air out.
 Advantages & Disadvantages Of Nuclear Fission & Fusion
Power
Fission
Advantages: Gaseous pollutants are not
produced. More energy is reserved than coal
and oil.
Disadvantages: The products are often
radioactive isotope in which can release
radiation into the environment. Also nuclear
power plants are very expensive to build.
Fusion
Advantages: The fuel for Fusion is very
abundant. Earths oceans could provide
enough hydrogen to meet energy needs for
millions of years.
Disadvantages: They can produce fast
neutrons which are hard to contain, and the
shielding material for this would have to be
replaced very often.