In which type of reaction do the nuclei of two light elements unite to form a heavier nucleus?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Fusion is the process in which the nuclei of two light elements, typically hydrogen isotopes (deuterium and tritium), are forced together to form a heavier nucleus. This process releases a large amount of energy, which is the source of power for the sun and other stars. Fission, on the other hand, is the process in which a heavy nucleus is split into two or more lighter nuclei, usually through bombardment with neutrons. Alpha and beta decay involve the emission of particles from the nucleus of an atom, rather than the formation of a new nucleus.

In Which Type of Reaction Do the Nuclei of Two