Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the concept of nuclear binding energy?
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21. Nuclear Chemistry
Nuclear Binding Energy
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Which of the following best describes the difference between fission and fusion nuclear reactions?
A
Fission involves splitting a heavy nucleus into smaller nuclei, while fusion involves combining light nuclei to form a heavier nucleus.
B
Fission reactions only occur in stars, while fusion reactions are used in nuclear power plants.
C
Fusion reactions occur spontaneously at room temperature, while fission reactions require extremely high temperatures.
D
Fission reactions release less energy per nucleon than fusion reactions.
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Understand the basic definitions of fission and fusion. Fission is the process where a heavy nucleus splits into two or more smaller nuclei, releasing energy. Fusion is the process where two light nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, also releasing energy.
Step 2: Recognize the typical conditions where these reactions occur. Fission reactions are commonly used in nuclear power plants and involve heavy elements like uranium or plutonium. Fusion reactions primarily occur in stars, where extremely high temperatures and pressures allow light nuclei like hydrogen isotopes to combine.
Step 3: Compare the energy released by each process. Fusion generally releases more energy per nucleon than fission because the binding energy per nucleon increases when light nuclei combine, whereas fission releases energy by splitting heavy nuclei into smaller, more stable ones.
Step 4: Evaluate the given answer choices based on these facts. The correct description should reflect that fission splits heavy nuclei and fusion combines light nuclei, and also consider where these reactions typically occur and their energy characteristics.
Step 5: Conclude that the best description is: 'Fission involves splitting a heavy nucleus into smaller nuclei, while fusion involves combining light nuclei to form a heavier nucleus,' because it accurately captures the fundamental difference between the two nuclear reactions.
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