QuestionJune 22, 2025

Which best describes what forms in nuclear fusion? two smaller,more stable nuclei two larger,less stable nuclei one smaller,less stable nucleus one larger ,more stable nucleus

Which best describes what forms in nuclear fusion? two smaller,more stable nuclei two larger,less stable nuclei one smaller,less stable nucleus one larger ,more stable nucleus
Which best describes what forms in nuclear fusion? two smaller,more stable nuclei two larger,less stable nuclei one smaller,less stable nucleus one larger ,more stable nucleus

Solution
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Answer

one larger, more stable nucleus Explanation 1. Understanding Nuclear Fusion In nuclear fusion, two light atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus. This process releases energy because the mass of the resulting single nucleus is less than the sum of the masses of the original nuclei. The difference in mass is converted into energy according to Einstein's equation E=mc^2. 2. Identifying the Resulting Nucleus The resulting nucleus from nuclear fusion is typically larger and more stable compared to the individual smaller nuclei that combined. This stability is due to the binding energy per nucleon being higher in the fused nucleus. 3. Selecting the Correct Description Based on the understanding of nuclear fusion, the correct description is "one larger, more stable nucleus."

Explanation

1. Understanding Nuclear Fusion<br /> In nuclear fusion, two light atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus. This process releases energy because the mass of the resulting single nucleus is less than the sum of the masses of the original nuclei. The difference in mass is converted into energy according to Einstein's equation $E=mc^2$.<br /><br />2. Identifying the Resulting Nucleus<br /> The resulting nucleus from nuclear fusion is typically larger and more stable compared to the individual smaller nuclei that combined. This stability is due to the binding energy per nucleon being higher in the fused nucleus.<br /><br />3. Selecting the Correct Description<br /> Based on the understanding of nuclear fusion, the correct description is "one larger, more stable nucleus."
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