Question

Which applies to fusion? Check all that apply.

involves the splitting of nuclei

takes place in the Sun

releases radiation as a waste product

occurs in nuclear power plants and is used to generate electricity

plays a role in the production of essentially all elements heavier than helium

releases large amounts of energy

Answer 1

Answers (check all that apply):

- involves the splitting of nuclei — No. (That describes fission.)
- takes place in the Sun — Yes. (The Sun’s energy comes from nuclear fusion.)
- releases radiation as a waste product — No. (Fusion emits energetic photons/particles, but it does not produce the long‑lived radioactive waste characteristic of fission.)
- occurs in nuclear power plants and is used to generate electricity — No. (Current commercial plants use fission; fusion power plants are not yet in commercial use.)
- plays a role in the production of essentially all elements heavier than helium — Yes. (Stellar fusion builds many heavier elements in stars; heavier elements beyond iron involve additional processes in stellar explosions.)
- releases large amounts of energy — Yes. (Fusion releases very large amounts of energy per unit mass.)