Chapter 20, Problem 20.89SP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The role of neutrons in the nuclear power plants needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

In an atom, three sub-atomic particles are arranged in certain way to make the atom stable. The nuclear attraction force works between electrons and protons due to opposite charges. The force between protons and neutrons holds these particles together. It can be measure by measuring the amount of energy necessary to break these forces.

It can be calculated with the help of Einstein’s mass − energy equation:

${\text{ΔE= m × c}}^{\text{2}}$

The mass defect can be calculated as the difference in the atomic mass and the sum of masses of all atomic particles. Nuclear fusion and nuclear fission are two types of nuclear reactions.