Related Words

Nuclear Pores: Openings in the membrane of a cells nuclear envelope that allow the exchange of materials between the nucleus and the cytoplasm.

Nuclear Fusion: Combination of two smaller nuclei to form a larger nucleus. The larger nucleus has higher binding energy per nucleon than the original nuclei, and fusion results in the release of energy.

Nuclear Reactor: A facility where a nuclear fission chain reaction can be initiated, controlled, and sustained.

Nuclear Transfer: A laboratory procedure in which a cell's nucleus is removed and placed into an oocyte with its own nucleus removed so the genetic information from the donor nucleus controls the resulting ce . . . View Full Definition

Thermonuclear Reaction: A reaction in which atomic nuclei fuse into new elements with a large release of heat: especially a reaction that is self-sustaining. Occasionally used to include fission reactions as well.

Spores: Impervious structures formed by some cells that encapsulate the cells and protect them from the environment; haploid cells that can survive unfavorable conditions and germinate into new hapl . . . View Full Definition

Nuclear Fuel: Fissionable materials that are rich enough to sustain a fission chain reaction.

Nuclear Fission: Splitting of a nucleus into two smaller nuclei and neutrons. The smaller nuclei have higher binding energy than the original nucleus, and fission results in the release of energy.

Megaspores: Four haploid cells produced by meiosis in the ovule of a fiower. Usually, three of these cells degenerate, with the remaining cell becoming the female gametophyte phase of the plants life cy . . . View Full Definition

Effective Nuclear Charge: The nuclear charge experienced by an electron when other electrons are shielding the nucleus.