What is the magnitude of the repulsive force in a nuclear fission problem?

In summary, the physics fission problem refers to the challenge of understanding and controlling the process of nuclear fission, which involves the splitting of an atomic nucleus and the release of energy. This process is used in nuclear power plants and weapons, but also carries potential dangers such as radiation and the risk of a nuclear meltdown. However, there are ongoing efforts to improve the safety and efficiency of nuclear fission, including advancements in technology and research into alternative forms of energy.
  • #1
mustang
169
0
Problem 19.
At the point of fission, a nucleus of 235_U that has 92 protons is divded into two smaller spheres, each of which has 46 protons and a radius of 5.9*10^-15m. what is the magnitude of the repulsive force pushing these two spheres apart? Use 8.99*10^9 N*m^2/C^2.
Note: How can you find the distance if the problem only the radius?
 
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  • #2
I would assume the two spheres are meant to be touching each other so that you can assume to point charges separated by 2(5.9*10^-15m)=
11.8*10-15m.
 
  • #3


The magnitude of the repulsive force in this nuclear fission problem can be calculated using Coulomb's Law, which states that the force between two charged objects is directly proportional to the product of their charges and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them.

In this problem, we can calculate the charge of each smaller sphere by using the fact that the number of protons in an atom is equal to its atomic number. So each sphere has a charge of 46 protons, or 46 times the elementary charge (1.6*10^-19 C).

Next, we need to find the distance between the two spheres. While the problem only gives us the radius of each sphere, we can use the fact that the distance between two spheres is equal to the sum of their radii. So in this case, the distance between the two spheres would be 2*5.9*10^-15m, or 1.18*10^-14m.

Now, we can plug these values into Coulomb's Law:

F = k * (q1 * q2) / d^2

Where k is the Coulomb's constant (8.99*10^9 N*m^2/C^2), q1 and q2 are the charges of the two spheres, and d is the distance between them.

So the magnitude of the repulsive force would be:

F = (8.99*10^9 N*m^2/C^2) * [(46 * 1.6*10^-19 C) * (46 * 1.6*10^-19 C)] / (1.18*10^-14m)^2

F = 5.83*10^-8 N

Therefore, the magnitude of the repulsive force pushing the two spheres apart in this nuclear fission problem is approximately 5.83*10^-8 N.
 

1. What is the physics fission problem?

The physics fission problem is a scientific challenge that involves understanding the process of nuclear fission, which is the splitting of an atomic nucleus into smaller fragments. This process releases a large amount of energy and is used in nuclear power plants and nuclear weapons.

2. How does nuclear fission work?

Nuclear fission occurs when a neutron collides with an atomic nucleus, causing it to split into two or more smaller nuclei. This release of energy also produces more neutrons, which can then go on to collide with other nuclei, creating a chain reaction.

3. What are the potential dangers of nuclear fission?

The main danger of nuclear fission is the release of radiation, which can be harmful to living organisms and the environment. If not properly controlled, a nuclear fission chain reaction can lead to a nuclear meltdown, causing widespread contamination and potentially catastrophic outcomes.

4. How is nuclear fission used in energy production?

Nuclear fission is used in nuclear power plants to generate electricity. The heat produced by the fission reaction is used to create steam, which then drives turbines that generate electricity. This process does not emit greenhouse gases, but it does produce nuclear waste that must be safely stored.

5. What are current efforts to address the physics fission problem?

Scientists are constantly researching and developing new technologies and methods to improve the safety and efficiency of nuclear fission. This includes advancements in reactor design, fuel enrichment, and waste management. Additionally, there is ongoing research into alternative forms of nuclear energy, such as nuclear fusion, which does not produce radioactive waste.

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