Write the nuclear reaction for the neutron-induced fission of U-235 to produce Te-137 and Zr-97. How many neutrons are produced in the reaction?

Key Concepts

Nuclear Fission

Nuclear fission is a process in which a heavy nucleus, such as uranium-235, splits into two or more lighter nuclei, along with the release of energy and additional neutrons. This reaction can be initiated by the absorption of a neutron, leading to a chain reaction that is fundamental in nuclear reactors and atomic bombs.

Balancing Nuclear Reactions

Balancing nuclear reactions involves ensuring that the total number of nucleons (protons and neutrons) and the total charge are conserved on both sides of the reaction equation. This is crucial for accurately representing the products of a fission reaction, including the identification of emitted neutrons and the resulting isotopes.

Neutron Production in Fission

In neutron-induced fission, the splitting of a heavy nucleus typically results in the release of additional neutrons, which can further propagate the fission process. The number of neutrons produced can vary, but in the case of U-235 fission, it generally produces 2 to 3 neutrons per reaction, contributing to the chain reaction in nuclear processes.