Thermonuclear reactions release energy because the product (ash)nucleus:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In a thermonuclear reaction, the nuclei of fuel atoms are combined to form a heavier nucleus called the product or "ash" nucleus. This product nucleus is more tightly bound than the original fuel nucleus, and the difference in binding energy is released as heat and light. Therefore, option B is the correct answer. Option A is incorrect because the protons are not converted into energy, instead, nuclear forces are transformed to energy. Option C is incorrect because if the product nucleus were less tightly bound than the fuel nucleus, the reaction would not release energy, but rather absorb energy. Option D is incorrect because the excess kinetic energy is negligible compared to the energy released by the thermonuclear reaction itself.

Thermonuclear Reactions Release Energy Because the Product (Ash)nucleus