kärnklyvande

Kärnklyvning, also known as nuclear fission, is a nuclear reaction in which the nucleus of an atom splits into smaller parts, often resulting in the release of a large amount of energy. This process typically occurs when a heavy atomic nucleus, such as that of uranium or plutonium, absorbs a neutron. Upon absorption, the nucleus becomes unstable and undergoes fission, breaking into two or more lighter nuclei, known as fission products.

The fission process also releases additional neutrons and gamma rays. The released neutrons can then go on to induce fission in other nearby heavy nuclei, leading to a self-sustaining chain reaction if enough fissile material (fissionable material) is present. This chain reaction is the principle behind nuclear reactors used for power generation and nuclear weapons.

The energy released during kärnklyvande comes from the difference in binding energy between the original heavy nucleus and the resulting lighter nuclei and neutrons. A small amount of mass is converted into energy according to Einstein's famous equation, E=mc². The fission products themselves are often radioactive, meaning they decay over time, emitting further radiation. Understanding and controlling kärnklyvande is crucial for harnessing nuclear energy safely and managing radioactive waste.