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Understanding Atomic Energy

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Understanding Atomic Energy

You are reviewing a proposal for a low-carbon electricity system in Aotearoa New Zealand. Use the information and data on this sheet to explain nuclear processes, calculate energy changes, and make evidence-based comparisons. Show working for calculations.

Nuclear energy: the essentials

Nuclear reactions change the nuclei of atoms. In fission, a large nucleus splits into smaller nuclei, usually after absorbing a neutron. The products include additional neutrons, which may trigger further fissions. In fusion, light nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus. Both processes can release energy because the total mass of the products is slightly less than the total mass of the reactants. This difference is the mass defect; its energy equivalent is given by E = mc².

1.For each process, identify whether it is fission or fusion, then give one reason: (a) two light nuclei join to make a heavier nucleus; (b) a heavy nucleus absorbs a neutron and splits.

2.In fission, one neutron may be absorbed by a fissile nucleus, which then splits and releases more neutrons. What can happen to the neutrons released by one fission? Explain how this could make the reaction self-sustaining, and name one way a reactor controls the rate of fission.

3.Complete this fission equation by finding the number of neutrons released: ²³⁵₉₂U + ¹₀n → ¹⁴¹₅₆Ba + ⁹²₃₆Kr + ? ¹₀n. Use conservation of nucleon number and charge.

4.A reaction has a mass defect of 0.20 u. Given 1 u = 1.66 × 10⁻²⁷ kg and c = 3.00 × 10⁸ m s⁻¹, calculate the energy released per reaction using E = mc². Give your answer in joules to two significant figures.

Comparing electricity options

The figures below are simplified illustrative estimates for electricity generation. Lifecycle emissions include construction, fuel supply, operation, and decommissioning. They are not a complete assessment of cost, reliability, land use, or waste.

Electricity source

Lifecycle emissions (g CO₂-e/kWh)

Typical operational emissions

Nuclear

Very low

Wind

Very low

Natural gas

490

High

5.Using the lifecycle estimates, calculate how many times greater the natural-gas estimate is than the nuclear estimate. Round to the nearest whole number. What does this comparison tell you—and what does it not tell you?

6.A campaign statement says, “Nuclear electricity produces no greenhouse-gas emissions.” Rewrite it as a more scientifically accurate claim, using the lifecycle data to support your revision.

Energy choices in Aotearoa New Zealand

New Zealand law prohibits the entry into its internal waters of ships whose propulsion relies wholly or partly on nuclear power, and of ships carrying nuclear explosive devices. This policy is often described as part of New Zealand’s nuclear-free stance. It is not the same thing as a scientific finding that nuclear electricity has no potential benefits or no risks. Decisions about electricity systems involve evidence, values, costs, engineering, and public policy.

7.Explain one important difference between the nuclear-free policy described above and the scientific question of whether nuclear power could generate low-carbon electricity.

8.Describe how energy released by fission in a nuclear power station can eventually become electrical energy in a home. Include the roles of a coolant or steam, a turbine, and a generator.

9.Write a brief recommendation to a New Zealand energy planning group: should it investigate nuclear electricity as one possible option for a future low-carbon system? State your position and support it with two relevant considerations from this sheet. Also identify one limitation or unanswered question that should be investigated.

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3 printable pages

About This Worksheet

Free in Kuraplan

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For Teachers & Parents

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