Final answer:
Nuclear fission and nuclear fusion are two different processes involving atomic nuclei. Fission involves the splitting of atomic nuclei, releasing energy, while fusion involves the combining of atomic nuclei, also releasing energy. Fission is currently used in nuclear reactors and weapons, while fusion is a potential future energy source.
Step-by-step explanation:
Nuclear Fission vs Nuclear Fusion
Nuclear fission is the process in which the nucleus of an atom is split into two or more smaller nuclei. This process releases a large amount of energy and is commonly used in nuclear power plants and nuclear weapons. On the other hand, nuclear fusion is the process in which two or more smaller atomic nuclei combine to form a larger nucleus. Fusion also releases a significant amount of energy and is the process that powers the sun.
The difference between nuclear fission and fusion:
- Nuclear fission involves the splitting of atomic nuclei, while nuclear fusion involves the combining of atomic nuclei.
- Nuclear fission releases energy by breaking apart heavy nuclei, while nuclear fusion releases energy by creating heavier nuclei from lighter ones.
- Fission is used in nuclear reactors and nuclear weapons, while fusion is still being researched as a potential future source of energy.