What is the difference between nuclear fission and nuclear fusion?

Question

A
Nuclear fusion explodes the nucleus of an atom, while nuclear fission harnesses the atom’s kinetic energy.

B
Nuclear fission splits an atom apart, while nuclear fusion fuses two atoms together.

C
Nuclear fission creates electrical energy, while nuclear fusion creates chemical energy.

D
Nuclear fusion splits hydrogen atoms apart, while nuclear fission fuses uranium atoms together.

Answer 1

The correct answer is:

B Nuclear fission splits an atom apart, while nuclear fusion fuses two atoms together.

Explanation:

• Nuclear fission is the process where a heavy nucleus (such as uranium or plutonium) splits into smaller nuclei, along with the release of energy.
• Nuclear fusion is the process where two light atomic nuclei (such as hydrogen isotopes) combine to form a heavier nucleus, also releasing energy.