Why do atoms undergo fission/fusion instead of emitting radiation?

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SUMMARY

Atoms undergo fission and fusion as alternative processes to achieve stability, rather than emitting alpha, beta, or gamma radiation. Fission occurs in heavy elements under specific conditions, while fusion typically involves the high-speed collision of light nuclei. These processes are distinct from radioactive decay, which involves the emission of radiation to reach a stable state. Understanding these mechanisms is essential for grasping nuclear physics concepts.

PREREQUISITES
  • Nuclear fission principles
  • Nuclear fusion mechanisms
  • Radioactive decay processes
  • Basic atomic structure knowledge
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of nuclear fission in detail
  • Explore the mechanisms of nuclear fusion
  • Research the differences between decay processes and nuclear reactions
  • Examine the stability of atomic nuclei and the forces involved
USEFUL FOR

Students of nuclear physics, educators teaching atomic structure, and anyone interested in the fundamental processes of atomic stability.

Klupa
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Why does fission/fusion occur instead of alpha/beta/gamma radiation?
 
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Sorry if it is a bit confusing but my teacher taught us how atoms emit alpha/beta/gamma radiation in order to become stable. In the next lesson he taught us how atoms undergo fission or fusion to become stable. I was just wondering what makes atoms fission/fusion to become stable rather than emit radiation?
 
Fission and fusion are two completely different processes.
Fission is an alternative to the decays you mentioned, but only occurs only in certain circumstances involving heavy elements.
Fusion is the result of two light (usually) nuclei undergoing high speed collision. It is not a decay process.
 
Klupa said:
Sorry if it is a bit confusing but my teacher taught us how atoms emit alpha/beta/gamma radiation in order to become stable. In the next lesson he taught us how atoms undergo fission or fusion to become stable. I was just wondering what makes atoms fission/fusion to become stable rather than emit radiation?
Did you read the links that were suggested as good resources for your learning by @anorlunda they should help you a lot. :smile:
 

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