In the process of nuclear fusion,
A) two or more nuclei fuse or stick together to form a heavier nucleus that has exactly the same mass as the original nucleus
B) a heavy nucleus breaks apart into a number of smaller nuclei whose combined mass is less than the original nucleus
C) two or more nuclei fuse or stick together to form a heavier nucleus whose combined mass is slightly less than the original nucleus
D) two or more nuclei fuse or stick together to form a heavier nucleus whose combined mass is slightly greater than the original nucleus

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In the process of nuclear fusion, two or more nuclei fuse or stick together to form a heavier nucleus whose combined mass is slightly less than the original nucleus. This difference in mass is converted into energy according to Einstein's famous equation, E=mc². This energy release is what powers the sun and other stars. Option A is incorrect because the resulting nucleus is heavier, not the same mass. Option B describes nuclear fission, not fusion. Option D is incorrect because the resulting nucleus is slightly lighter, not heavier.

In the Process of Nuclear Fusion