Question

From the following equations, pick out the possible nuclear fusion reactions

• A. ${}_6{\text{C}}^{13}+{}_1{\text{H}}^1\to {}_6{\text{C}}^{14}+4.3\text{MeV}$
• B. ${}_6{\text{C}}^{12}+{}_1{\text{H}}^1\to {}_7{\text{C}}^{13}+2\text{MeV}$
• C. ${}_7{\text{N}}^{14}+{}_1{\text{H}}^1\to {}_8{\text{O}}^{15}+7.3\text{MeV}$
• D. ${}_{92}{\text{U}}^{235}+{}_0{\text{n}}^1\to {}_{54}{\text{Xe}}^{140}+{}_{38}{\text{Sr}}^{94}+2_0{\text{n}}^1+\gamma +Q$

Answer 1

Answer: (B), (C)

${}_7{\text{N}}^{14}+{}_1{\text{H}}^1\to {}_8{\text{O}}^{15}+7.3\text{MeV}$

Option $\left(A\right)$ does not satisfy the condition of conservation of atomic number, as the sum of $Z$ of reactants is $7$ and that of products is $6$.

Therefore, $\left(A\right)$ cannot represent any nuclear reaction.

Option $\left(D\right)$ represents a nuclear fission reaction and not a nuclear fusion reaction.

Option $\left(B\right)$ and $\left(C\right)$ represents the nuclear fusion reaction, as two lighter nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus and also there is release of energy.

Hence, option $\left(B\right)$ and $\left(C\right)$ are correct.