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  1. Nuclear fission - Wikipedia

    Nuclear fission produces energy for nuclear power and drives the explosion of nuclear weapons. Both uses are possible because certain substances called nuclear fuels undergo fission when struck by …

  2. DOE Explains...Nuclear Fission - Department of Energy

    Nuclear fission is the process where the nucleus of an atom splits into two or more smaller nuclei and other particles. These particles can include neutrons, alpha particles (helium nuclei), beta particles …

  3. Nuclear fission | Examples & Process | Britannica

    Jan 2, 2026 · Nuclear fission, subdivision of a heavy atomic nucleus, such as that of uranium or plutonium, into two fragments of roughly equal mass. The process is accompanied by the release of …

  4. What is Fission? - Live Science

    Jul 19, 2023 · Fission is the process by which an atom splits into two, generating two smaller atoms and a tremendous amount of energy. Fission powers nuclear bombs and power plants.

  5. Fission - Understand Energy Learning Hub

    Nuclear fission is the process of splitting a large atom into two smaller atoms and releasing a LOT of heat, making it an extremely energy dense resource. That heat is used to boil water, make steam, …

  6. Nuclear Fission Definition and Examples

    May 13, 2023 · Nuclear fission is a nuclear reaction or a radioactive decay process in which the nucleus of an atom splits into two or more smaller, lighter nuclei. This process often produces gamma …

  7. Understanding the Difference Between Nuclear Fission and Fusion ...

    Nuclear fission is the process used in today's nuclear power plants. It occurs when the nucleus—the central core of an atom—typically of a heavy element, such as uranium or plutonium, splits into two …

  8. What Is Nuclear Fission? The Physics Behind Atomic Power

    May 25, 2025 · Nuclear fission is the process by which the nucleus of an atom splits into two or more smaller nuclei, accompanied by the release of a large amount of energy. This seemingly simple …

  9. Nuclear Fission Definition and Examples - ThoughtCo

    Jun 9, 2025 · Fission is the splitting of an atomic nucleus into two or more lighter nuclei accompanied by energy release. The original heavy atom is termed the parent nucleus, and the lighter nuclei are …

  10. The Fission Process – MIT Nuclear Reactor Laboratory

    When a U-235 nucleus absorbs an extra neutron, it quickly breaks into two parts. This process is known as fission (see diagram below). Each time a U-235 nucleus splits, it releases two or three neutrons. …