Nuclear Fission - Uncontrolled Chain Reaction

Physics: Edexcel IGCSE, topic 7.2.7

Nuclear Fission - Uncontrolled Chain Reaction

If nuclear fission is not controlled, then the rate of nuclear fission can become faster and faster. This starts a chain reaction where each stage of fission produces more and more energy. This could lead to an explosion.

Atom bombs

Atom bombs

  • Atom bombs use these chain reactions to create large explosions and release lots of energy.

Test yourself on Nuclear Fission - Uncontrolled Chain Reaction

  • Which of these is a possible fuel for an atom bomb?

  • Which of the following are true of nuclear fission?

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