Plutonium-239 Fission

239Pu + 1n → 134Xe + 103Zr + 31n

Übersicht

Plutonium-239 undergoes neutron-induced fission similar to U-235 but with slightly higher energy release. Pu-239 is produced in reactors when U-238 absorbs a neutron and undergoes two beta decays. MOX fuel (mixed oxide of Pu and U) is used in some commercial reactors to consume excess plutonium.

Teilnehmer

Rolle Substanz Koeffizient Zustand
Reaktant Plutonium Pu 1 (s)
Produkt Xenon Xe 1 (g)
Produkt Zirconium Zr 1 (s)

Alltägliches Beispiel

Plutonium-238 (a different isotope) powers NASA space probes like Voyager, Curiosity, and the Perseverance Mars rover.

Industrielle Bedeutung

Pu-239 is used in nuclear weapons and MOX reactor fuel. Plutonium management is a central issue in nuclear non-proliferation.

Eigenschaften

Typ
Nuclear
Reversibel
Nein
Energie
Exotherm
ΔH
-20000000000,0 kJ/mol

Verwandte Reaktionen

Alpha Decay of Radon-222 Neutron Capture by Uranium-238 Beta Decay of Strontium-90 Beta Decay of Cobalt-60 Beta Decay of Carbon-14 Proton-Proton Chain (Solar Fusion) Uranium-235 Fission Positron Emission of Carbon-11 Positron Emission of Fluorine-18 (PET Scan) Alpha Decay of Radium-226

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Plutonium-239 Fission?
The balanced equation is: ²³⁹Pu + ¹n → ¹³⁴Xe + ¹⁰³Zr + 3¹n.
What type of reaction is Plutonium-239 Fission?
Plutonium-239 Fission is a nuclear reaction.
Is Plutonium-239 Fission exothermic or endothermic?
Plutonium-239 Fission is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -20000000000.0 kJ/mol.