What are "fission products", and why are they significant?

Fission products are the radioactive isotopes created as a result of the nuclear fission process, where a heavy nucleus splits into two or more lighter nuclei along with the release of energy. This is significant because these isotopes can vary widely in their properties and include both short-lived and long-lived radioactive materials. Their presence is critical to understand in nuclear reactors as they contribute to the decay heat that must be managed even after a reactor is shut down. Additionally, fission products play a vital role in the overall impact of nuclear waste and require careful handling and storage due to their radioactivity. Furthermore, the behavior and characteristics of these fission products influence the design of nuclear reactors and the safety protocols associated with nuclear energy production.