Challenge: Applications of Nuclear Reactions

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Challenge: Applications of Nuclear Reactions [∞]

Day 3 – Applications of Nuclear Reactions

Objective

Understand real-world applications of nuclear reactions, particularly in energy production, and critically evaluate their potential benefits and challenges.

10-Minute Launch

Video (5 Minutes)

  • Show a short video (e.g., "How Nuclear Energy Works" or "The Promise of Fusion Power") that explains:
    • How nuclear fission and fusion reactions work in energy production.
    • The advantages and risks of nuclear power.
    • Future potential of fusion energy.

Socratic Questions (A/B)

  • A: Why do you think nuclear energy is both praised and feared?
  • B: Would you rather invest in current nuclear technology (fission) or wait for fusion? Why?
  • A: What factors make nuclear energy more sustainable than fossil fuels?
  • B: What challenges must humanity overcome to make fusion energy a reality?

90-Minute Challenge

1. Explore Nuclear Energy Production: Pros and Cons (20 Minutes)

  • Divide students into two groups to research and discuss:
    • Group A: Pros of nuclear fission energy (e.g., efficiency, low carbon emissions).
    • Group B: Cons of nuclear fission energy (e.g., waste, risks of accidents).
  • Deliverables:
    • Groups present their findings to the class in a 3-minute summary.

2. Fusion Research and Future Potential (20 Minutes)

  • Activity: Use resources (videos, simulations, or articles) to explore ongoing research into fusion energy.
  • Five Variations for Group Work:
    1. Group 1: Investigate ITER (International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor).
    2. Group 2: Research breakthroughs in laser-based fusion (e.g., National Ignition Facility).
    3. Group 3: Explore small-scale fusion reactor designs (e.g., startups like Helion Energy).
    4. Group 4: Study fusion's environmental impact compared to fission.
    5. Group 5: Analyze the timeline and challenges for making fusion commercially viable.
  • Deliverables:
    • Each group summarizes their findings with a visual diagram or infographic.

3. Debate: Fusion Energy vs. Fission Energy (30 Minutes)

  • Students participate in a structured debate:
    • Team 1: Argues for fusion energy as the future of sustainable power.
    • Team 2: Argues for improving and continuing fission energy.
  • Debate Format:
    • Opening statements (2 minutes per team).
    • Rebuttals and counterpoints (5 minutes per team).
    • Closing arguments (2 minutes per team).

4. Assessment: Persuasive Essay on Fusion Energy (20 Minutes)

  • Students individually write a short persuasive essay answering:
    • Do you believe fusion energy is worth the investment? Why or why not?

10–15-Minute Landing

Reflection Questions (5–10 Minutes)

  • What surprised you about the pros and cons of nuclear energy?
  • If fusion energy becomes viable, how do you think it will change the world?
  • What ethical considerations should be made when using nuclear technology?

Wrap-Up (5 Minutes)

  • Recap the key takeaway: Nuclear reactions have enormous potential but come with significant challenges. The future may lie in fusion energy if we can overcome technical and economic barriers.

Materials Required

For Lecture and Research

  1. Video and Internet Access:
    • Access to a short, engaging video explaining nuclear energy and fusion research.
  2. Research Materials:
    • Laptops/tablets with internet access for group work.
    • Pre-selected resources on ITER, laser fusion, and fusion startups.
  3. Handouts:
    • Summary sheet of nuclear fission and fusion basics.
    • Debate preparation worksheet.

For Group Activities and Presentations

  1. Poster Boards or Large Paper Sheets:
    • For group summaries and diagrams.
  2. Markers, Colored Pencils, or Crayons:
    • For creating infographics and diagrams.

For Debate

  1. Debate Guidelines and Format Sheet:
    • Clear instructions for each team’s roles and timing.
  2. Printed Debate Prompts:
    • Prepared arguments for fusion and fission as starting points (optional).

For Individual Essay

  1. Writing Supplies:
    • Notebooks or laptops for drafting essays.
  2. Rubric for Assessment:
    • Outline of criteria for a persuasive essay (e.g., clarity, argument strength, use of evidence).
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