Hydrogen vs Atomic: Nuclear Fission vs Fusion Explained | Damage Comparison

In summary: The main difference between nuclear fission and fusion is the reaction itself, in fission a nucleus splits while in fusion two nuclei join together. Regarding the difference in damage caused by hydrogen and atomic bombs, it depends on the size of the bomb and the location where it is dropped. In general, hydrogen bombs have a higher yield and can cause more damage than atomic bombs, as seen in the example of the Tsar Bomb. However, the specific damage caused by a bomb also depends on the type of explosion, whether it is an air burst or ground burst.
  • #1
xujf1996
2
0

Homework Statement


What is the difference between nuclear fission and nuclear fusion?
After answering the question proceed on to answer the next question
Between Hydrogen Bomb and Atomic Bomb, which bomb causes more damage. provide you answer with reasons.


Homework Equations


Nuclear Fission and Nuclear Fusion?


The Attempt at a Solution


a) Nuclear fission involves a nuclear reaction in which the nucleus of an atom splits into smaller parts (lighter nuclei), often producing free neutrons and photons (in the form of gamma rays), as well whereas Nuclear fusion is the process in which two or more atomic nuclei join together to form a single heavier nucleus.
b) As stated above, Hydrogen bomb causes more damage as up till now, the biggest bomb being built on Earth is a hydrogen bomb called, Tsar Bomb. it is a 57 megaton bomb.
 
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  • #2
You are right about basic facts, if that's a homework adding some details won't hurt.

Tsar Bomb WAS the largest build, as it doesn't exist anymore :wink:
 
  • #3
Can anyone help me to add on more facts? Googling can't seem to supply my thrist for better answer.
This is just my interest but i do not know whether it is considered as a homework or a general dicussion
 
  • #4
On the general level you will get probably enough information from wikipedia.
 
  • #5
In comparison, the most powerful atomic bomb ever detonated was the Tsar Bomba, with a yield of only 50 megatons. Hydrogen bombs use fusion reactions to produce much larger amounts of energy than atomic bombs, which use fission reactions. Therefore, hydrogen bombs are more destructive and can cause more damage.
 

1. What is the difference between hydrogen and atomic?

Hydrogen is a chemical element with one proton and one electron, while atomic refers to anything related to atoms, which are the basic building blocks of matter.

2. What is nuclear fission and fusion?

Nuclear fission is the process of splitting an atom into smaller parts, releasing a large amount of energy. Fusion, on the other hand, is the process of combining two or more atoms to form a larger one, also resulting in a release of energy.

3. How do nuclear fission and fusion compare in terms of damage?

Nuclear fission can result in significant damage due to the release of radiation and the creation of radioactive waste. However, fusion is considered to be a much cleaner and safer option, with minimal waste and no risk of a nuclear meltdown.

4. Which is more commonly used: nuclear fission or fusion?

Nuclear fission is currently the most commonly used method for generating nuclear power. Fusion, while promising, is still in the early stages of development and has not yet been implemented on a large scale.

5. Are there any potential benefits to using fusion over fission?

One potential benefit of fusion is the nearly limitless supply of fuel, as it can use hydrogen extracted from seawater. Additionally, fusion does not produce greenhouse gases or contribute to climate change, making it a more environmentally friendly option.

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