| Method |
Precise Learning Objective |
Linked |
Question / Activity
(Designed for maximum working out) |
Stepping Stones |
Pitstop Check
(Thinking Map) |
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Nuclear fission is the splitting of a large and unstable nucleus (eg uranium or plutonium). |
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What is meant by the term 'nuclear fission'? |
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Spontaneous fission is rare. Usually, for fission to occur the unstable nucleus must first absorb a neutron. |
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When does Spontaneous fission occur? |
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The nucleus undergoing fission splits into two smaller nuclei, roughly equal in size, and emits two or three neutrons plus gamma rays. Energy is released by the fission reaction. |
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What happens to a nucleus undergoing fission? Model nuclear fission of a uranium nucleus. Use students. |
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All of the fission products have kinetic energy. |
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What type of energy do all fission products have? Watch - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1U6Nzcv9Vws
Use ideas from Energy topic (4.2) to answer question: Explain how the kinetic energy of the products is transferred to boil water. |
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The neutrons may go on to start a chain reaction. |
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What starts the chain reaction? Model chain reactions using dominos or matches. |
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The chain reaction is controlled in a nuclear reactor to control the energy released. |
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How is a chain reaction controlled? |
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The explosion caused by a nuclear weapon is caused by an uncontrolled chain reaction. |
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How is the explosion of a nuclear weapon caused? GF : Investigate the causes of the Chernobyl and Fukushima nuclear disasters. Have the lessons of these events been learnt? How can nuclear power be made safer than it is currently? |
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Students should be able to draw/interpret diagrams representing nuclear fission and how a chain reaction may occur. |
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Nuclear fusion is the joining of two light nuclei to form a heavier nucleus. |
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What is nuclear fusion? Write simple word or symbol equations for the fusion of two hydrogen atoms or other light elements. |
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