Question

Explain nuclear fission and nuclear fusion with examples. 
 

Hint:

Nuclear fusion releases far more energy per unit mass than fission and powers stars, but it is technically more difficult to achieve on Earth.

Answer 1

- Nuclear Fission: Nuclear fission is the process in which a heavy nucleus, such as Uranium-235 or Plutonium-239, splits into two or more smaller nuclei along with the release of energy and free neutrons. These neutrons can induce further fission reactions, leading to a chain reaction. An example of nuclear fission is the reaction in a nuclear reactor or the atomic bomb. \[ \text{U}^{235} + \text{n} \rightarrow \text{Kr}^{92} + \text{Ba}^{141} + 3 \, \text{neutrons} + \text{energy}. \] - Nuclear Fusion: Nuclear fusion is the process where two light nuclei, such as Hydrogen isotopes (Deuterium and Tritium), combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing large amounts of energy. Fusion is the process that powers stars, including the Sun. \[ \text{D} + \text{T} \rightarrow \text{He} + \text{n} + \text{energy}. \]