Classmate Facts # 116 - Chemistry Facts

Happy Christmas to all our Readers!

1. Every atom of an element contains the same number of protons. For example, Carbon has 6 protons. Bu sometimes the number of neutrons in elements varies and this results in isotopes. Sometimes, Carbon atoms have 8 neutrons and we get Carbon 14, an Isotope of Carbon 12.

2. Fission occurs when one element breaks into several others, releasing energy in the process. When a neutron strikes Uranium it disintegrates into Krypton, Barium, a few neutrons and lots of energy. This energy is also used by nuclear reactors. In fusion, two elements fuse together to form another element and also release energy. Tritium and Deuterium fuse to form Helium and release enormous amounts of energy in the bargain! That's fission and fusion for you!