Here's a breakdown:
* Nuclear Fission: This is a nuclear reaction where the nucleus of an atom is split into two or more lighter nuclei.
* How it works: A neutron is fired at a heavy atom, like Uranium-235. This neutron causes the atom to become unstable, and it splits into two smaller atoms, releasing a tremendous amount of energy and more neutrons. These neutrons can then trigger further fission reactions, creating a chain reaction.
Key points about nuclear fission:
* Energy Release: It releases a huge amount of energy, which is harnessed in nuclear power plants.
* Chain Reaction: The process can become self-sustaining, leading to a chain reaction.
* Nuclear Weapons: The uncontrolled chain reaction is the basis of atomic bombs.
Important Note: Nuclear fission is different from radioactive decay, which involves the spontaneous breakdown of an atom's nucleus, but doesn't necessarily result in smaller atoms.
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