lõhustumisprotsess

Lõhustumisprotsess, known in English as fissile material or nuclear fission, refers to the process where the nucleus of a heavy atom, such as uranium or plutonium, splits into two or more smaller nuclei when struck by a neutron. This splitting releases a significant amount of energy in the form of heat and gamma radiation, along with additional neutrons. These newly released neutrons can then go on to strike other fissile nuclei, creating a chain reaction.

The amount of energy released in a fission event is governed by Einstein's famous equation E=mc², where a small amount of mass is converted into a large amount of energy. This principle is fundamental to both nuclear power generation and the design of nuclear weapons. In nuclear reactors, the chain reaction is carefully controlled to produce heat, which is then used to generate electricity. In nuclear weapons, an uncontrolled and rapid chain reaction releases a massive amount of energy instantaneously.

The fissile materials most commonly used are Uranium-235 and Plutonium-239. Uranium-235 is a naturally occurring isotope, though it is relatively rare and often requires enrichment to increase its concentration for most applications. Plutonium-239 is not found in significant quantities in nature but can be produced in nuclear reactors from Uranium-238. The concept of lõhustumisprotsess is a cornerstone of nuclear physics and has had profound implications for energy production and global security.