Chapter 19, Problem 34A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The nuclear fission and fusion reactions needs to be explained with examples.

Concept introduction: Nuclear fission is a process by which the nucleus of a heavier atom is split into two or more smaller nuclei generally by the bombardment of neutrons. The reaction is exothermic and huge amounts of energy are released in the process.

Nuclear fusion is the process by which two or lighter nuclei fuse together to form a heavier nucleus with the release of large amounts of energy.

Answer to Problem 34A

Nuclear fusion results in the formation of heavier nucleus whereas nuclear fission results in the formation of lighter nucleus.

Explanation of Solution

Example of nuclear fission:

  ${}_{\text{ 92}}^{\text{ 235}}U+{}_0^{\text{1}}n\to {}_{56}^{140}Ba+{}_{36}^{93}Kr+{\text{ 3}}_0^{\text{1}}n$

Fission of Uranium (heavier nucleus) occurs to form Barium and Krypton (lighter nucleus).

Example of nuclear fusion:

  ${}_{\text{ 1}}^{\text{ 2}}H+{}_{\text{ 1}}^{\text{ 3}}H\to {}_2^{4}He+{}_0^{\text{1}}n$

Here deuterium and tritium (lighter nucleus) combines to form helium (heavier nucleus).

Conclusion

Nuclear fusion results in the formation of heavier nucleus whereas nuclear fission results in the formation of lighter nucleus.