20.2 Nucler Fusion

Question 0

What is the maximum relative mass of the nucleus formed?

Answer 0

55 (iron)

Question 1

How can nuclei release energy?

Answer 1

Two small nuclei release energy when they are fused together to form a single larger nucleus - nuclear fusion.

Question 2

What is the sun?

Answer 2

75% hydrogen

25% helium

Question 3

What happens when two protons, eg hydrogen, fuse?

Answer 3

They form a heavy nucleus, eg heavy hydrogen

Question 4

What happens if two more protons clash with two heavy hydrogens?

Answer 4

Turned into heavier nuclei

Question 5

What happens if two heavier hydrogen nuclei collide?

Answer 5

Form helium

Question 6

What energy is released?

Answer 6

Kinetic energy

Question 7

What difficulties are there in making fusion a useful source of energy?

Answer 7

Heated to high temperatures

Heated by electric current; plasma cannot touch container walls or it will stop

Question 8

What are the benefits of reactors?

Answer 8

Fuel available as hydrogen eg in water

Reaction product, helium, harmless

Energy can generate electricity

Question 9

Benefits compared to fission reactors?

Answer 9

Fission:

Use uranium; only found in certain parts of the world

Nuclear waste