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?

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the initial reactant and products: The reaction involves U-235 and a neutron as reactants, producing Te-137, Zr-97, and some neutrons.
2. Write the nuclear equation: Start with the reactants on the left side, U-235 and a neutron (n), and the products on the right side, Te-137, Zr-97, and neutrons (n).
3. Balance the atomic numbers: The sum of atomic numbers on the left must equal the sum on the right. U-235 has an atomic number of 92, Te-137 has 52, and Zr-97 has 40. Calculate the total atomic number on the right and ensure it equals 92.
4. Balance the mass numbers: The sum of mass numbers on the left must equal the sum on the right. U-235 and a neutron have a combined mass number of 236. Te-137 and Zr-97 have a combined mass number of 234. Determine how many neutrons are needed to balance the mass numbers.
5. Calculate the number of neutrons produced: Subtract the total mass number of the products from the total mass number of the reactants to find the number of neutrons produced.

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.