Question

What is nuclear fusion?

Options

• The process in which light nuclei combine to form a more tightly bound heavier nucleus, and energy is released during the process

• The process in which a nucleus emits an alpha particle to become more stable

• The process in which a heavy nucleus splits into lighter nuclei, releasing energy

• The process in which electrons are stripped from atoms at very high temperature

Answer 1

Nuclear fusion is defined as the process in which light nuclei combine to form a more tightly bound heavier nucleus. Energy is released during this process because the final nucleus is more stable. This is distinct from fission, where a heavy nucleus splits apart.