Chapter U1, Problem 4RE

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Nuclear fission and nuclear fusion must be described.

Concept introduction:

Nuclear reactions are those in which one nuclide is converted to other by means of addition or release of particles.

Answer to Problem 4RE

Nuclear fusion is the type of nuclear reaction in which two or more than two lighter nuclides combine to produce a relatively heavier nuclide.

Nuclear fission is the type of nuclear reaction in which heavier nuclide is converted to two or more than two lighter nuclides after bombarding with some particles.

Explanation of Solution

When Uranium-235 undergoes nuclear fission it is converted to nuclides of barium, krypton and three neutrons. These daughter nuclides are lighter as compared to mother nuclide uranium-235.

When nuclides of hydrogen undergo nuclear fusion it is converted to heavier nuclides helium. This reaction required heat and light energy.