Models showing the fission of uranium 235.
- Made:
- 1958 in South Kensington
- maker:
- Science Museum
Models showing the fission of uranium 235.
This is a model illustrating the fission of uranium 235. When atoms of uranium 235 are bombarded with neutrons, they break up into two parts, releasing energy and secondary neutrons. If a sufficient number of atoms is bombarded, enough neutrons escape to cause a self-sustaining chain reaction generating huge amounts of energy. Rapid fission allowed the development of the atomic bomb, while fission in controlled circumstances enabled the production of nuclear power. This 'ball-and-stick' model was made over forty years ago in the Museum's own workshop. It was used for exhibition to illustrate the fission process.
Details
- Category:
- Nuclear Physics
- Object Number:
- 1958-108
- Measurements:
-
overall: 31.4961 x 10.2362 x 21.6535 in.; 800 x 260 x 550 mm
- type:
- fission process illustration and model
- credit:
- Science Museum Workshops
