Question

what is nuclear fusion?
nuclear fusion is the process of two lighter elements coming together to form a heavier element along with the absorption of a large amount of ener
nuclear fusion is a process in which heavy element disintegrates into lighter elements with the release of a large amount of energy
nuclear fusion is a process in which heavy element disintegrates into lighter elements with the absorption of a large amount of energy
nuclear fusion is the process of two lighter elements coming together to form a heavier element along with the release of a large amount of energy

Explanation:

To determine the correct definition of nuclear fusion, we recall that nuclear fusion involves the combination of two lighter atomic nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, and this process releases a large amount of energy (unlike nuclear fission, which is the disintegration of heavy elements into lighter ones, often releasing energy too, but fusion is about combining light nuclei).

• The first option is incorrect because fusion releases, not absorbs, energy.
• The second and third options describe nuclear fission (disintegration of heavy elements), not fusion.
• The fourth option correctly states that fusion is the process of two lighter elements combining to form a heavier element with energy release.

Answer:

The fourth option: Nuclear fusion is the process of two lighter elements coming together to form a heavier element along with the release of a large amount of energy.