Nuclear Fusion Basics

What is the primary fuel used in nuclear fusion reactions in the sun?

• Uranium

• Hydrogen

• Helium

• Carbon

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NGSS.HS-ESS1-1

NGSS.HS-PS1-8

Which of the following is a simple description of nuclear fusion?

• Splitting of a heavy nucleus into two lighter nuclei

• Combining two light atomic nuclei to form a heavier nucleus

• Emission of alpha particles from a nucleus

• Absorption of neutrons by a nucleus

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NGSS.HS-ESS1-1

NGSS.HS-ESS1-3

NGSS.HS-PS1-8

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NGSS.HS-PS3-2

Identify the process that describes the energy release in nuclear fusion.

• Energy is absorbed as nuclei split

• Energy is released as nuclei combine

• Energy is absorbed as electrons are added

• Energy is released as neutrons are emitted

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NGSS.HS-ESS1-1

NGSS.HS-PS1-8

Explain why nuclear fusion reactions are difficult to achieve on Earth compared to the sun.

• The sun has a stronger magnetic field

• The sun has a higher gravitational force and temperature

• The sun has a higher concentration of uranium

• The sun has a lower temperature

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NGSS.HS-PS1-8

Which of the following best describes the energy conversion in nuclear fusion?

• Chemical energy to thermal energy

• Thermal energy to electrical energy

• Mass energy to thermal energy

• Kinetic energy to potential energy

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NGSS.HS-ESS1-1

Which isotope of hydrogen is most commonly used in nuclear fusion experiments?

• Protium

• Deuterium

• Tritium

• Helium-3

The splitting of a nucleus into smaller nuclei is

• fusion
• fission
• decay
• gamma radiation

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NGSS.HS-PS1-8

Where does fusion take place?

• sun

• stars

• deep inside the earth

• nuclear reactors

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