The ore of Uranium found in nature contains 92U238 and 92U235

Modern Physics (10)

The ore of Uranium found in nature contains ₉₂U²³⁸ and ₉₂U²³⁵. Although both the isotopes are fissionable, it is found out experimentally that one of the two isotopes is more easily fissionable.

1. Name the isotope of Uranium which is easily fissionable.
2. Give a reason for your answer.
3. Write a nuclear reaction when Uranium 238 emits an alpha particle to form a Thorium (Th) nucleus.

Answer

(i) ₉₂U²³⁵

(ii) Fission of ₉₂U²³⁸ is possible only by fast neutrons while the fission of ₉₂U²³⁵ can be even possible by the slow neutrons.

(iii)

• Exam Year: 2018