Plutonium-239 Fission

239Pu + 1n → 134Xe + 103Zr + 31n

Ikhtisar

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.

Peserta

Peran Zat Koefisien Keadaan
Reaktan Plutonium Pu 1 (s)
Produk Xenon Xe 1 (g)
Produk Zirconium Zr 1 (s)

Contoh Sehari-hari

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

Pentingnya dalam Industri

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

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.