Chapter 24, Problem 90A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The reason for not using chemical treatment to destroy the fission product in nuclear reactor is to be explained.

Concept introduction:

In a nuclear reaction, unstable nuclide disintegrates into stable nuclide with emission of various radiations spontaneously. It is called radioactivity of nucleus. Emission of rays like alpha, beta and gamma rays occur in the process which changes the identity of nucleus.

During a nuclear change, an element undergoes change in its atomic mass or atomic number or both by emission of charged particles such as beta particle, alpha particle. Beta particle is one that has unit negative charge and alpha particle is one that has 2 unit positive charges and is equivalent to helium atom ${}_2^4\text{He}$. Emission of proton, beta particle, alpha particle causes a change in atomic number of element.

Answer to Problem 90A

The products of nuclear fission cannot be treated with chemical treatments as in chemical reactions nucleus of the atoms remain unchanged and hence is unfit for disposal of nuclear waste.

Explanation of Solution

In chemical reactions, bonds between atoms are either newly formed or broken, but the nucleus of atoms remains unaffected. In chemical reaction one atom affects the electron density of other and hence shell structure of atoms change and bond are formed or broken.

But in case of nuclear reactions, atoms are radioactive that is their nucleus are highly unstable and continuously decay into smaller fragments or nucleus with release of high amount of harmful radiations. These reaction are very difficult to control or stop because of very high half life.

Hence the products of nuclear fission are treated with advanced technologies for their longer life and then sealed in containers for burying deep underground.

Conclusion

The products of nuclear fission cannot be treated with chemical treatments as in chemical reactions nucleus of the atoms remain unchanged and hence is unfit for disposal of nuclear waste.