5-RAD-04

Specification References

• 7.17 understand that a nucleus of U-235 can be split (process of fission) by collision with a neutron, and that this process releases energy in the form of kinetic energy of the fission products
• 7.18 recall that the fission of U-235 produces two daughter nuclei and a small number of neutrons
• 7.19 understand that a chain reaction can be set up if the neutrons produced by one fission strike other U-235 nuclei
• 7.20 understand the role played by the control rods and moderator when the fission process is used as an energy source to generate electricity

Plenary

• alphs, beta and gamma rays are ionising radiations emitted from unstable nuclei in a random process

Additional Information

Resources Required

• Geiger-Muller counter
• kit containing alpha, beta and gamma sources
• different materials of different thicknesses

Safety/Hazards

• Don't keep the sources outside their boxex for too long!