Difference between binding and bonding energy

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the concepts of binding energy in physics and bonding energy in chemistry, exploring their similarities and differences. Participants examine the energy transformations involved in nuclear fusion reactions compared to chemical bond formation, as well as the nature of energy release in these processes.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the relationship between bonding in chemistry and binding energy in physics, specifically in the context of nuclear fusion and exothermic reactions.
  • Another participant suggests that the processes are similar, noting that in nuclear fusion, energy from mass defect is converted to kinetic energy of product particles, while in chemical bonding, energy is released as heat.
  • It is mentioned that chemical binding energies are much smaller than those in fusion processes, leading to different manifestations of energy release, such as thermal motion or radiation.
  • A later reply seeks clarification on the term "thermal motion," indicating a need for further explanation of the concept.
  • Responses reiterate that thermal motion refers to the movement of particles due to temperature, but some participants express confusion about the clarity of this explanation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the similarity between the processes of nuclear fusion and chemical bonding, but there is some uncertainty regarding the terminology and implications of thermal motion.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the definitions of binding and bonding energy are not explicitly stated, and the discussion does not resolve the nuances of energy release mechanisms in different contexts.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in the interplay between physics and chemistry, particularly in the context of energy transformations and particle motion.

anonymous24
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Hello,
I am not sure whether it is the right place to post this but I am a bit confused about the bonding in chemistry and the binding energy in physics. From what I have read, in a nuclear fusion reaction, the released energy due to mass defect is converted to the kinetic energy of the product particles. However, in chemistry, the process is exothermic when bonds are formed, is it a similar process? Also, why would the energy released as heat instead of the kinetic energy of the product molecules? Thank you in advance.
 
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It is very similar.
anonymous24 said:
From what I have read, in a nuclear fusion reaction, the released energy due to mass defect is converted to the kinetic energy of the product particles.
Only if two or more particles are created, otherwise it happens via the emission of radiation.
The same applies to chemical bonds.

Chemical binding energies are much smaller, so the motion of particles or the emission of radiation is directly close to thermal motion/radiation, whereas fusion processes produce very fast particles or high-energetic radiation.
 
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mfb said:
It is very similar.
Only if two or more particles are created, otherwise it happens via the emission of radiation.
The same applies to chemical bonds.

Chemical binding energies are much smaller, so the motion of particles or the emission of radiation is directly close to thermal motion/radiation, whereas fusion processes produce very fast particles or high-energetic radiation.

Thank you for your response. I do understand the first part, but I'm not sure what do you mean by "thermal motion", could you please elaborate on it. thank you!
 
Motion of particles due the temperature. I don't understand what is unclear.
 
mfb said:
Motion of particles due the temperature. I don't understand what is unclear.
Thank you, I was just a bit confused but I am clear now. :)
 

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