Whiteboard: Nuclear Chain Reaction
In your science notebook, explain the difference between nuclear fission and nuclear fusion. Use the whiteboard to draw a representative diagram of each process and use the notes section to explain them. Use the following vocabulary as you explain these processes:
- parent atom(s)
- daughter atom(s)
- energy
Click to see a sample answer.
Nuclear fission is a nuclear reaction in which a heavy nucleus, the parent atom, splits into two or more lighter nuclei, the daughter atoms, with the release of large amounts energy. It is represented by the image below:
Nuclear fusion is a nuclear reaction in which two or more lighter nuclei, the parent atoms, combine to form comparatively heavier nucleus, the daughter atom. This also releases a large amount of energy. It is represented by the image below:
