Fisjonsdelene

Fisjonsdelene, or fission fragments, are the atomic nuclei produced when a fissile atom undergoes nuclear fission. This process typically occurs when a heavy nucleus, such as uranium-235 or plutonium-239, absorbs a neutron. The absorption makes the nucleus unstable, leading to its splitting into two or more lighter nuclei. These resulting lighter nuclei are the fisjonsdelene.

The masses of the fisjonsdelene are not equal; they usually fall into two broad mass ranges, with a peak around 95 and 135 atomic mass units. The exact mass distribution depends on the specific fissile material and the energy of the incident neutron. In addition to these two main fragments, nuclear fission also releases several neutrons and a significant amount of energy, primarily in the form of kinetic energy of the fisjonsdelene and gamma radiation.

The fisjonsdelene are highly radioactive because they are neutron-rich isotopes that are not typically found in nature. They undergo radioactive decay, emitting beta particles, gamma rays, and sometimes neutrons, to reach a stable state. This radioactivity is a key characteristic of nuclear fission products and is a major consideration in the management of nuclear waste. The energy released by the decay of these fragments contributes to the decay heat in nuclear reactors.