Fissioitumisreaktiot

Fissioitumisreaktiot, known in English as fission reactions, are nuclear processes where the nucleus of an atom splits into two or more smaller nuclei, releasing a large amount of energy. This splitting is typically initiated when a heavy nucleus, such as uranium-235 or plutonium-239, absorbs a neutron. The absorption makes the nucleus unstable, causing it to deform and eventually break apart.

The fission of a heavy nucleus results in the production of several lighter nuclei, known as fission products. These fission products are themselves often radioactive. Additionally, the fission process releases additional neutrons, typically two or three per fission event. These released neutrons can go on to induce fission in other nearby heavy nuclei, leading to a self-sustaining chain reaction. This chain reaction is the fundamental principle behind nuclear power reactors and nuclear weapons.

The energy released during fission comes from the conversion of a small amount of mass into energy, as described by Albert Einstein's famous equation E=mc². This energy is primarily in the form of kinetic energy of the fission products and neutrons, as well as gamma radiation. Controlling the rate of fissioitumisreaktiot is crucial for safe operation in nuclear power plants, where control rods are used to absorb excess neutrons and regulate the chain reaction. Uncontrolled chain reactions, however, lead to the immense explosive power of nuclear weapons.