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Fission, fusion and nuclear power

Atomic structure and nuclear physics · Lesson 5 of 5

Lesson 5 of 5

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Lesson 5 of 5 · Atomic structure and nuclear physics

Fission, fusion and nuclear power

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By the end you’ll be able to

describe nuclear fission as the splitting of a large unstable nucleus into two smaller nuclei with the release of energy and neutrons
explain how a chain reaction occurs in fission and why control rods and moderators are used in nuclear reactors where specified
describe some of the radioactive waste produced by nuclear power generation and the issues involved in its storage and disposal

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explain why fusion requires very high temperatures and pressures and why it occurs naturally in stars

evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of nuclear power compared with other energy resources, including reliability, carbon emissions, accident risk and waste

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