Compare how fusion joins smaller nuclei and fission splits a large nucleus, using isotope products, star and reactor contexts, and relative safety.
This question is about stars.
The process of energy release in the core of a star is different to the process of energy release in a nuclear reactor in a power station.
Describe how these processes of energy release are different.
- stars use fusion, reactors use fission
- fusion detail, e.g. joining of nuclei / involves light nuclei such as hydrogen
- fission detail, e.g. splitting of nuclei / involves heavy nuclei such as uranium or plutonium
Marking guidance:
- Both fusion and fission needed.
- Condone atoms for nuclei.