Nuclear Fission & Fusion: Explained for Newbies

In summary, the question asks why only light nuclei are able to undergo nuclear fusion, not heavy nuclei. The answer is that light nuclei have a lower binding energy per nucleon, making it more energetically favorable for them to undergo fusion. This is due to the nature of nuclear forces and the strong repulsion between protons in heavy nuclei. Both fusion and fission reactions release energy due to the conversion of mass to energy according to Einstein's famous equation, E=mc^2. The amount of energy released in a fusion reaction is determined by the specific reaction and the mass defect between the initial and final nuclei.
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  • #2
The thread you linked has a good answer. What is unclear?
 
  • #3
[QUOTE="mfb", post: 5726841, member: 405866"]The thread you linked has a good answer. What is unclear?[/QUOTE]
I agree that link has good answers, but As I am a new for this topic I want to know the basic depth knowledge.

Such things like,
Why do fusion reaction and fission reaction both release energy and how?
How much energy is released in a fusion reaction?
 
Last edited:
  • #4
That is explained in the linked thread.
The Wikipedia articles give good introductions as well.
 

1. What is nuclear fission?

Nuclear fission is a process where the nucleus of an atom is split into smaller parts, releasing a large amount of energy. This process is used in nuclear power plants to generate electricity.

2. How does nuclear fission work?

Nuclear fission occurs when a neutron collides with the nucleus of a large atom, causing it to split into two smaller atoms and releasing more neutrons. These neutrons can then collide with other atoms, creating a chain reaction that releases a large amount of energy.

3. What is nuclear fusion?

Nuclear fusion is a process where the nuclei of two smaller atoms combine to form a larger atom. This process also releases a large amount of energy and is the same process that powers the sun and other stars.

4. How does nuclear fusion differ from nuclear fission?

Nuclear fusion differs from nuclear fission in that it involves combining smaller atoms, while fission involves splitting larger atoms. Fusion also releases much more energy than fission and produces less radioactive waste.

5. What are the potential benefits and risks of nuclear fission and fusion?

The benefits of nuclear fission and fusion include a large and reliable source of energy, as well as reduced carbon emissions compared to fossil fuels. However, the risks include the potential for accidents and the handling of radioactive waste. Additionally, the technology for nuclear fusion is still in development and is not yet commercially viable.

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