Sample interview questions: Can you explain the principles of nuclear fission and fusion?
Sample answer:
Nuclear Fission
- Process where a heavy atomicnucleus, such as Uranium-235, is split into two or more lighter atomicnuclei, accompanied by the release of large amounts of energy.
- Occurs when a free or low-energyneutron is captured by the heavy atom, making itunstable.
- In a controlled chain reaction, the emitted neutrons strike and split additional atoms, sustaining the process.
- Application: nuclear power plants and nuclear weapons.
NuclearFusion
- Process where two light atomicnuclei, such as Deuterium andTritiums, combine to form a single,heavier atomicnucleus, accompanied by the release of vast amounts of energy.
- Requires extremely high temperatures and pressure to overcome the electrostaticrepulsion betweennuc… Read full answer