Question

using the two models, compare the processes of nuclear fusion and nuclear fission. what do the two processes have in common? choose all that apply
a energy is released
b new elements are formed
c a chain reaction occurs
d besides energy, neutrons are released
e both processes begin with an unstable nucleus

Explanation:

• Option A: In both nuclear fusion (e.g., \(2_{1}^{2}H

ightarrow_{2}^{4}He+\text{energy}\)) and nuclear fission (e.g., \(_{92}^{235}U + _{0}^{1}n
ightarrow _{56}^{141}Ba+_{36}^{92}Kr + 3_{0}^{1}n+\text{energy}\)), energy is released due to mass - energy conversion (\(E = mc^{2}\)).

• Option B: In nuclear fusion, new elements (e.g., helium from hydrogen isotopes) are formed. In nuclear fission, new elements (e.g., barium and krypton from uranium) are formed as the parent nucleus splits.
• Option C: Chain reaction is a characteristic of nuclear fission (where neutrons from one fission event cause further fission events: \(_{92}^{235}U + _{0}^{1}n

ightarrow\) products \(+ 3_{0}^{1}n\), and those neutrons can react with other \(_{92}^{235}U\) nuclei). Nuclear fusion does not typically involve a chain reaction in the same sense.

• Option D: In nuclear fission, neutrons are released (\(_{92}^{235}U + _{0}^{1}n

ightarrow _{56}^{141}Ba+_{36}^{92}Kr + 3_{0}^{1}n\)). In nuclear fusion (e.g., \(2_{1}^{2}H
ightarrow_{2}^{4}He+\text{energy}\)), neutrons are not a common by - product in the simple hydrogen - to - helium fusion.

• Option E: Nuclear fission begins with an unstable nucleus (e.g., \(_{92}^{235}U\)). Nuclear fusion begins with light nuclei (e.g., hydrogen isotopes which are relatively stable on their own, but under high temperature and pressure conditions, they fuse).

Answer:

A. Energy is released, B. New elements are formed