Nuclear+fission+-+Andrew

=__What is Nuclear Fission?__ = Nuclear Fission is the process in which an atom is split into smaller parts. This process creates a lot of energy in the form of kinetic energy and heat energy. Nuclear Fission is a viable alternative to fossil fuels, because it creates MUCH more energy compared to burning gas, oil or coal. However, the destructive power of nuclear weapons come from Nuclear Fission, and the constant threat of misuse is likely to put off some countries from using this source of energy.

=**__The Process of Fission__ **= Nuclear Fission occurs when a slow moving neutron collides with fissile material (e.g. Uranium-235) and splits the nucleus of the atom. This produces lighter, faster moving elements as well as free neutrons that move onto other atoms of the element to continue the reaction.

=** __Energy Transfers__ **= NUCLEAR POTENTIAL ENERGY → Kinetic Energy → Heat Energy → ELECTRICAL ENERGY

=**__Advantages of Nuclear Fission__ **=
 * Millions of times more energy in an Atom then there is coal, gas or oil

=**__Disadvantages of Nuclear Fission__ **=
 * Nuclear weapons use nuclear fission to produce the explosions
 * The products of fission are radioactive for a very long time

=**__Environmental Effects__ **=
 * The by-products Nuclear Fission remain radioactive for a VERY long time
 * In some cases, the products are very harmful and have half lives of thousands of years.
 * Many products of Fission destroy the environment and all life around.

= = =****__Example + Facts and Figures: Natural Nuclear Reactor at Okla, Gabon__ ****=