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Upon absorbing an extra neutron, U235 splits into two daughter atoms, releasing 2-3 neutrons in the process and a large amount of energy. There are many different daughter products that the fission of U235 can form. In most cases, those daughter products are radioactive and continue to decay over time.

Nuclear Fission

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Uranium-235 can undergo fission, splitting into two smaller atoms, under certain circumstances.

92

Accelerate Neutron

235

U

To initiate the fission of U235, a neutron is accelerated toward a uranium atom.

Start Over

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143

Upon absorbing an extra neutron, U235 splits into two daughter atoms, releasing 2-3 neutrons in the process and a large amount of energy. There are many different daughter products that the fission of U235 can form. In most cases, those daughter products are radioactive and continue to decay over time releasing additional particles and decay products.

Neutrons

38

54

236

Sr

Xe