Question

What is the difference between nuclear fission and nuclear fusion? Explain each of them with the help of an appropriate example. Why is in both incidents the nuclear energy released?

Hint:

Fusion releases more energy than fission but requires extreme conditions to occur.

Answer 1

Step 1: Definition of Nuclear Fission and Fusion Nuclear Fission: The splitting of a heavy nucleus into two lighter nuclei with the release of energy. \[ ^{235}U + n \rightarrow ^{141}Ba + ^{92}Kr + 3n + \text{energy} \] Nuclear Fusion: The combining of two light nuclei to form a heavier nucleus with the release of energy. \[ ^{2}H + ^{3}H \rightarrow ^{4}He + n + \text{energy} \] Step 2: Why Energy is Released? Energy is released in both processes due to the mass defect, which is converted into energy according to Einstein’s equation: \[ E = mc^2 \] Step 3: Key Differences \begin{tabular}{|c|c|c|} \hline Aspect & Fission & Fusion
\hline Fuel & Uranium/Plutonium & Hydrogen isotopes
\hline Temperature & Moderate & Very High
\hline Energy Yield & High & Very High
\hline Example & Nuclear reactors & Sun's energy
\hline \end{tabular} \[ \boxed{\text{Fission releases energy by splitting; Fusion releases energy by combining.}} \]