Question

Which one of the following would be most likely to undergo thermonuclear fusion?

• A. ${}^4$He
• B. ${}^2$H
• C. ${}^{56}$Fe
• D. ${}^{235}$U

Answer 1

The correct option is B

${}^2$H

Lighter elements are more likely to undergo thermonuclear fusion easily, i.e. ${}^2$H. When there are two heavier nuclei, they will have more protons, and so the coulombic repulsion between the nuclei will increase. The means that more energy is needed as input in order to fuse the nuclei together.