Nuclear fusion is a reaction that occurs when two or more atomic nuclei combine to form one or more different atomic nuclei and subatomic particles. This process releases energy because the total mass of the resulting nucleus is less than the mass of the two original nuclei. The leftover mass becomes energy. Nuclear fusion is the opposite of nuclear fission, in which heavy elements diffuse and form lighter elements. Nuclear fusion is a potentially lucrative energy source that is environmentally friendly. It doesn't generate long-lived radioactive waste and doesn't contribute to greenhouse... Show more Nuclear fusion is a reaction that occurs when two or more atomic nuclei combine to form one or more different atomic nuclei and subatomic particles. This process releases energy because the total mass of the resulting nucleus is less than the mass of the two original nuclei. The leftover mass becomes energy. Nuclear fusion is the opposite of nuclear fission, in which heavy elements diffuse and form lighter elements. Nuclear fusion is a potentially lucrative energy source that is environmentally friendly. It doesn't generate long-lived radioactive waste and doesn't contribute to greenhouse gas emissions or global warming. However, fusion energy generation is an intense process that requires planning and the construction of expensive facilities. The energy from the Sun - both heat and light energy - originates from a nuclear fusion process that is occurring inside the core of the Sun. The specific type of fusion that occurs inside of the Sun is known as proton-proton fusion. Related Test: Basic Physics Practice Test: Nuclear Fission & Reactor Show less
Nuclear fusion is a reaction that occurs when two or more atomic nuclei combine to form one or more different atomic nuclei and subatomic particles. This process releases energy because the total mass of the resulting nucleus is less than the mass of the two original nuclei. The leftover mass becomes energy.
Nuclear fusion is the opposite of nuclear fission, in which heavy elements diffuse and form lighter elements. Nuclear fusion is a potentially lucrative energy source that is environmentally friendly. It doesn't generate long-lived radioactive waste and doesn't contribute to greenhouse gas emissions or global warming. However, fusion energy generation is an intense process that requires planning and the construction of expensive facilities.
The energy from the Sun - both heat and light energy - originates from a nuclear fusion process that is occurring inside the core of the Sun. The specific type of fusion that occurs inside of the Sun is known as proton-proton fusion.
Related Test: Basic Physics Practice Test: Nuclear Fission & Reactor
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