How are fusion and fission similar? Click the two that apply.
a
Both produce energy
b
Both occur in the stars.
c
Both are used to create electricity.
d
Both involve changes in the nucleus of atoms.
a
Both produce energy
d
Both involve changes in the nucleus of atoms.
a) Both produce energy.
d) Both involve changes in the nucleus of atoms.
To determine which options apply, we need to understand the concepts of fusion and fission.
Fusion and fission are both processes that involve changes in the nucleus of atoms.
Fusion is the process of combining two or more atomic nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, releasing a large amount of energy in the process. Fusion reactions occur in stars, where the immense heat and pressure enable atomic nuclei to overcome their electrostatic repulsion and come close enough for the strong nuclear force to bind them together. This is why option "b" is correct, as both fusion and fission can occur in stars.
Fission, on the other hand, is the process of splitting a heavy atomic nucleus into two or more smaller nuclei, again releasing a significant amount of energy. Nuclear fission reactions can occur in nuclear power plants, where uranium or plutonium nuclei are bombarded with neutrons to trigger the splitting process. This splitting releases energy in the form of heat, which can be used to generate electricity. Therefore, option "c" is incorrect since fusion, not fission, is used to create electricity.
Option "a" is correct because both fusion and fission reactions release energy.
Therefore, the correct answers are:
a) Both produce energy.
d) Both involve changes in the nucleus of atoms.