Chapter 16, Problem 11TE

Your tutor says that atomic nuclei are converted to energy in a nuclear reactor. Why should you seek a new tutor?

To determine

The reason behind seeking a new tutor.

Answer to Problem 11TE

The reason behind seeking a new tutor is because basic knowledge of old tutor is not clear.

Explanation of Solution

The total masses of the product obtained from the single fission reaction are less than the original nucleus' mass. This mass difference results in the release of the photons. Similarly, in the case of nuclear fusion, energy is released due to the mass difference between the reactant and the product. As momentum always remain conserved despite the type of nuclear reaction. The energy can be evaluated using Einstein's energy equation. It is clear that the energy converted in the nuclear reactor is not due to the nuclei, but it is because of the mass difference of the nuclei.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the reason behind seeking a new tutor is because basic knowledge of old tutor is not clear.