"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
25 Jul 2023
Nuclear energy is a topic that often raises questions and curiosity from the public. One of the most common questions is about the difference between nuclear fission and nuclear fusion.
Nuclear fission is the process of splitting an atomic nucleus into two or more smaller nuclei, which releases a large amount of energy. This process is used in nuclear power plants to generate electricity and in nuclear weapons to release destructive energy. It works by bombarding a heavy nucleus with a neutron, causing it to split into smaller nuclei.
Nuclear fusion, on the other hand, is the process of combining two or more atomic nuclei into a heavier nucleus, which also releases energy. This process is what powers the sun and stars and is being researched as a potential energy source on Earth. Nuclear fusion requires high temperatures and pressures to overcome the electrostatic repulsion between positively charged nuclei.
While both processes release energy from atomic nuclei, they differ in their mechanisms. Nuclear fission splits a heavy nucleus into smaller pieces, while nuclear fusion combines small nuclei into a heavier nucleus.
Understanding the differences between nuclear fission and nuclear fusion is important for discussions on energy production, nuclear weapons, and environmental concerns. As research continues into nuclear fusion, it may become a viable source of clean energy in the future.
