Lõhustumisi

Lõhustumisi refers to fission in Estonian. Nuclear fission is a process in which the nucleus of an atom splits into smaller parts, often producing free neutrons and photons (in the form of gamma rays), and releasing a very large amount of energy. This process can be part of a chain reaction, where the neutrons released from one fission event go on to cause further fission events.

Fission is primarily associated with heavy atomic nuclei, such as isotopes of uranium and plutonium. When a neutron strikes a fissile atom, it can be absorbed by the nucleus, making it unstable. This instability leads to the nucleus splitting into two or more smaller nuclei, known as fission fragments, along with the release of several neutrons and a significant amount of energy in the form of kinetic energy of the fragments and gamma radiation.

The energy released during nuclear fission is utilized in nuclear power plants to generate electricity and in nuclear weapons. The controlled chain reaction in a nuclear reactor allows for the steady release of energy, while an uncontrolled chain reaction leads to an explosion in a nuclear bomb. Understanding lõhustumisi is crucial for nuclear physics, energy production, and nuclear safety. The process can be initiated by various particles, but neutrons are most commonly used for sustained reactions.