Question

What are the two processes by which nuclear energy is released? Briefly describe the processes.
in small paragraph

Answer 1

Nuclear energy is released by two processes: fission and fusion. In fission, a heavy nucleus (like uranium-235 or plutonium-239) splits into two lighter nuclei when struck by a neutron, releasing a large amount of energy, additional neutrons and radioactive fragments; controlled chain reactions power nuclear reactors, while uncontrolled ones produce atomic bombs. In fusion, two light nuclei (such as isotopes of hydrogen) combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy because the final nucleus has a higher binding energy per nucleon; fusion powers the sun and hydrogen bombs and promises very high energy yield if confined and sustained under extreme temperature and pressure.