Chapter 40, Problem 2A

What is the role of a neutron in nuclear fission?

To determine

The role of neutron in the nuclear fission.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

The nuclear fission is the nuclear reaction in which the heavier nucleus of element is splited into different lighter nucleus. The energy releases in the nuclear fission is very high.

The nucleons in the atom are bind by the strong nuclear force. The nuclear force is so strong that high energy is necessary to split the nucleus of the atom.

The binding energy is the energy that requires to split a heavier nucleus into lighter nucleus. This energy is provided by the neutron. The neutron contains the high amount of energy. The heavier nucleus splits into lighter nucleus by absorbing the energy of the neutron. This type of split of the nucleus is called nuclear fission.

Conclusion:

Thus, the neutron provides the energy for the initiation of the nuclear fission.