Nuclear Fission and Fusion

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What is nuclear fission?

Back

Nuclear fission is the process in which a heavy nucleus splits into two or more smaller nuclei, along with the release of energy.

Front

What is nuclear fusion?

Back

Nuclear fusion is the process in which two light atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy in the process.

Front

What is the primary energy source for stars, including the sun?

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The primary energy source for stars, including the sun, is nuclear fusion.

Front

What are the conditions necessary for nuclear fusion to occur?

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Nuclear fusion requires extremely high temperatures and pressures to overcome the electrostatic repulsion between positively charged nuclei.

Front

What is the difference between nuclear fission and fusion?

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Nuclear fission involves the splitting of heavy nuclei, while nuclear fusion involves the combining of light nuclei.

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What is a common application of nuclear fission?

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A common application of nuclear fission is in nuclear power plants, where it is used to generate electricity.

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What is a common application of nuclear fusion?

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A common application of nuclear fusion is in hydrogen bombs and potentially in future energy generation through controlled fusion.

Front

What role does nuclear fusion play in the lifecycle of stars?

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Nuclear fusion is the process that powers stars, allowing them to shine and produce energy throughout their lifecycle.

Front

What is the energy output of nuclear fusion compared to nuclear fission?

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Nuclear fusion releases significantly more energy per reaction compared to nuclear fission.

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What is the significance of the proton-proton chain reaction?

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The proton-proton chain reaction is a series of nuclear fusion reactions that occur in stars like the sun, converting hydrogen into helium and releasing energy.