Nuclear Fission and Fusion _ GCSE Physics

The video tutorial explains how nuclear power plants generate energy through nuclear fission, a process of splitting large atomic nuclei like uranium or plutonium to release energy. It highlights the efficiency of nuclear fission compared to coal. The tutorial then contrasts this with nuclear fusion, where small atoms like hydrogen are fused to form helium, releasing even more energy than fission. The video emphasizes the potential of both processes in energy generation.

What is the initial step in the nuclear fission process?

• A nucleus absorbs a proton.

• A nucleus splits spontaneously.

• A nucleus combines with another nucleus.

• A nucleus absorbs a neutron.

How much natural uranium is needed to meet the annual energy demand of an average American?

• 275 grams

• 500 grams

• 1 kilogram

• 2 kilograms

What is the energy equivalent of 275 grams of uranium in terms of coal?

• 2.2 tons

• 3.3 tons

• 4.4 tons

• 5.5 tons

Which isotopes are primarily used in nuclear fusion?

• Helium-3 and Helium-4

• Plutonium-239 and Plutonium-240

• Hydrogen-1 and Hydrogen-2

• Uranium-235 and Uranium-238

How does the energy release in nuclear fusion compare to nuclear fission?

• Fusion releases less energy than fission.

• Fusion releases the same amount of energy as fission.

• Fusion releases more energy than fission.

• Fusion does not release any energy.