Question

Differentiate between nuclear fission and nuclear fusion. Give one example for each with nuclear reaction.

Answer 1

Basis	Nuclear Fission	Nuclear Fusion
Definition	Nuclear fission is the process of splitting a heavy nucleus into two or more lighter nuclei.	Nuclear fusion is the process where two light nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus.
Nuclei involved	Heavy nuclei like uranium or plutonium are used in this process.	Light nuclei, specifically isotopes of hydrogen. are involved in this process.
Energy release	A large amount of energy is released during nuclear fission.	An even greater amount of energy is released in nuclear fusion than in fission.
Conditions required	It occurs at comparatively lower temperatures and can be initiated by neutrons.	It requires extremely high temperatures and pressures to occur.
Chain reaction	Nuclear fission can produce a chain reaction, which is utilized in nuclear reactors.	Nuclear fusion does not occur as a self-sustaining chain reaction in the same way.
By-products	This process produces a significant amount of radioactive waste.	Produces very little radioactive waste.
Example	\[\ce{^235_92U + ^1_0n -> ^141_56Ba + ^92_36Kr + 3^1_0n + Enegry}\]	\[\ce{^2_1H + ^3_1H -> ^4_2He + ^1_0n + Energy}\]