What is Nuclear Fission? – Process, Applications | New Topic [2024]

In this note, we are going to learn a topic called “What is Nuclear Fission?” and about its process and applications. Welcome to Poly Notes Hub, a leading destination for engineering notes for diploma and degree engineering students.

Author Name: Arun Paul.

What is Nuclear Fission?

Nuclear Fission is the process by which the nucleus of a heavy atom (such as uranium-235 or plutonium-239) divides into two smaller nuclei, each containing a few neutrons and a lot of energy.

Process of Nuclear Fission

Here is the process of the nuclear fission –

• A neutron strikes the nucleus of a heavy atom.
• The nucleus becomes unstable, dividing into two smaller nuclei.
• This splitting produces more neutrons and a large quantity of energy in the form of heat.

Applications of Nuclear Fission

These are the important applications of this process –

• Used in nuclear power reactors to generate electricity.
• Nuclear weapons use explosive energy release.