Nuclear reaction or chemical reaction

In summary, the conversation discusses the difference between chemical and nuclear reactions and concludes that the reaction of hydrogen and oxygen to form water is a chemical reaction. This is because chemical reactions do not affect the nucleus, while nuclear reactions involve changes to the nucleus of an atom. The equation for the reaction (2 H2 + O2 -> 2 H2O) also supports the conclusion that it is a chemical reaction. The conversation also provides resources for further information on nuclear reactions.
  • #1
mike2007
46
0
If you light a match to a mixture of oxygen and hydrogen which then reacts explosively to form water. Is it a chemical or nuclear reaction?

I know a chemical reaction is one in which a substance is changed into one or more new substances.

A nuclear reaction is one in which a new element can be made with different proton and neutron numbers.

I think from the above to would say the reaction is Nuclear and not chemical.
Please shed some light
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
In combustion of hydrogen with oxygen

2 H2 + O2 -> 2 H2O

The element identities are preserved.

Now is it nuclear or chemcial?
 
  • #3
From the equation I would say the reaction is a chemical one.
 
  • #4

1. What is the difference between a nuclear reaction and a chemical reaction?

A nuclear reaction involves changes in the nucleus of an atom, while a chemical reaction involves changes in the arrangement of electrons in an atom.

2. What causes a nuclear reaction to occur?

A nuclear reaction is caused by the breaking apart or combining of atomic nuclei, typically through the release or absorption of energy.

3. How is a nuclear reaction different from a radioactive decay?

A nuclear reaction involves the interaction and exchange of particles between atomic nuclei, while a radioactive decay is a spontaneous process in which an unstable nucleus releases particles or energy to become more stable.

4. Can a chemical reaction result in the formation of new elements?

No, a chemical reaction only results in the rearrangement of atoms and the formation of new compounds. Only a nuclear reaction can change the number of protons in an atom and create a new element.

5. What is the main source of energy in a nuclear reaction?

The main source of energy in a nuclear reaction is the conversion of mass into energy, as described by Einstein's famous equation E=mc². This can occur through the fusion of light nuclei or the fission of heavy nuclei.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
807
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Science Fiction and Fantasy Media
Replies
11
Views
522
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
835
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
754
Replies
17
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
981
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
631
Back
Top