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

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the reasons why atoms undergo fission or fusion instead of emitting radiation such as alpha, beta, or gamma radiation. It explores the processes involved in achieving atomic stability, focusing on the distinctions between fission, fusion, and radioactive decay.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question the clarity of the original inquiry regarding the stability of atoms through fission/fusion versus radiation emission.
  • One participant notes that fission and fusion are fundamentally different processes, with fission occurring under specific conditions involving heavy elements, while fusion typically involves light nuclei colliding at high speeds.
  • Another participant reiterates the confusion stemming from their teacher's explanation of stability through both radiation emission and fission/fusion, seeking to understand the conditions that lead to one process over the other.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing levels of understanding regarding the original question, with some seeking clarification while others provide explanations that highlight the differences between the processes. The discussion remains unresolved as participants have not reached a consensus on the original inquiry.

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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