Physics GCSE
uranium and plutonium
What uranium and plutonium means in Physics GCSE, as defined for AQA.
Definition of uranium and plutonium
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain uranium and plutonium in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
Heavy nuclei used as fuels whose nuclei hold so many protons and neutrons that they are only just held together.
Topics that use uranium and plutonium
- Nuclear fission (AQA GCSE)
Related terms
- chain reaction
- control rods
- energy released per fission
- energy transfer to thermal store
- fissions per second
- kinetic energy of fragments
- meltdown
- moderator and coolant
Using uranium and plutonium in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Physics questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All Physics GCSE termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge