1. The atomic number of uraniun-235 is 92. its half-life is 704 million years, and the radioactive decay of 1 kg
of 235U releases 6.7 x 10^13 J. Radioactive material
must be stored in a safe container or buried deep
underground until its radiation output drops
to a safe level Generally, it is considered "safe" after 10
half-lives
(a) Assume that a nuclear power plant can convert
energy from 235U into electricity with an
efficiency of 35 percent, the electrical transmission
lines operate at 90 percent efficiency and
fluorescent lights operate at 22 percent efficiency
(1) What is the overall efficiency of
converting the
energy of 235U into
fluorescent light? (2 points)
(ii) How much energy from 1 kg of 235U is
converted into fluorescent light?
(2 points)
(hi) Name one way in which you could
improve the overall eficiency of this
system Explain how your suggestion
would improve efficiency. (2 points)
(b) What are the first and second laws of
thermodynamics? (2 points)