Chapter 20.2, Problem 8R

To determine

To Contrast: The energy that is released during the nuclear fission reaction with the energy released during the nuclear fusion reaction.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

During the nuclear fission reaction, the energy is released in courtesy of a series of reactions known as chain reactions involving the neutrons bombarding with a large nucleus and splitting into two or more smaller nuclei whereas during nuclear fusion reactions, the energy is released when two or more lighter nuclei combine to form large nucleus.

In Nuclear fission reactions, if the chain reactions are uncontrolled, an enormous amount of energy is released in an instant. However, the chain reaction can be controlled by adding materials that absorb neutrons. If enough neutrons are absorbed, the reaction will be controlled.

For example: The reactions operating inside the nuclear power plant are nuclear fission reactions controlled in the same manner.

In Nuclear fusion reactions, the energy released is much more than the energy released during the nuclear fission reactions. For Nuclear reactions to occur, nuclei must get close to each other. However, all nuclei having positive charge, repel each other. For reaction to occur, they must possess enough kinetic energy to overcome this repulsion.

For example: In sun, tremendous energy of about every second is released courtesy of series of nuclear fusion reactions.

Conclusion: The energy released during the nuclear fusion reactions is much larger than the energy released during the nuclear fission reactions.