Fusion and fission are two types of nuclear reactions that involve changes in the atomic nucleus of an atom.
Fusion is the process of combining two light atomic nuclei to form a heavier nucleus. This process releases a large amount of energy in the form of heat and light. Fusion occurs under high temperatures and pressures, similar to those found in the core of a star. A specific example of fusion is the fusion of two hydrogen nuclei to form helium, which is the process that powers the sun. In this reaction, the two hydrogen nuclei (protons) combine to form a helium nucleus, which consists of two protons and two neutrons. This process releases a large amount of energy in the form of gamma rays and other high-energy particles.
Fission, on the other hand, is the process of splitting a heavy atomic nucleus into two or more smaller nuclei. This process also releases a large amount of energy in the form of heat and radiation. Fission is used in nuclear power plants to generate electricity. A specific example of fission is the splitting of a uranium-235 nucleus into two smaller nuclei, such as krypton-92 and barium-141, and several neutrons. This reaction also releases a large amount of energy in the form of gamma rays and other high-energy particles.
In the case of the element Si-32, fusion and fission reactions can occur. For example, Si-32 can undergo fusion with hydrogen to form a heavier element, such as sulfur or argon. On the other hand, Si-32 can also undergo fission, where it can split into smaller nuclei, such as magnesium and calcium. The specific details of these reactions, including the amount of energy released and the products formed, depend on the specific conditions and the reactants involved.