Question

Distinguish between nuclear fission and nuclear fusion reactions.

Answer 1

The required differences are:

Parameter	Nuclear fission	Nuclear fusion
Process	A heavy unstable nucleus disintegrates into two light nuclei.	A heavier nucleus is formed by combining two or more lighter nuclei.
Nuclear fuel	U-235 and Pu-239 are used as nuclear fuel.	Deuterium and Tritium are used as nuclear fuel.
Availability of nuclear fuel	The availability of nuclear fission fuel is limited and expensive.	The availability of nuclear fusion fuel is unlimited and cheap.
Impact on environment	The emission of radiation from this process leads to environmental pollution.	There is no emission of nuclear radiation, so no environmental pollution.
Chain reaction	There is the possibility of a chain reaction.	There is no possibility of a chain reaction.
Energy released	A big amount of energy is released.	The high amount of energy released is even higher than the nuclear fission process.