Distinguish between Fission and Nuclear Fusion in a table form. June 2012 Q.9 a-b. June 2011 Q.9 a-b.

Here is a table distinguishing between Nuclear Fission and Nuclear Fusion:

| Feature | Nuclear Fission | Nuclear Fusion | | :------------------ | :------------------------------------------------ | :------------------------------------------------ | | Definition | The splitting of a heavy atomic nucleus into two or more lighter nuclei. | The joining of two or more light atomic nuclei to form a heavier nucleus. | | Reactants | Heavy, unstable nuclei (e.g., Uranium-235, Plutonium-239). | Light nuclei (e.g., isotopes of hydrogen like Deuterium and Tritium). | | Products | Lighter nuclei, neutrons, and a large amount of energy. | A heavier nucleus, often a neutron, and a very large amount of energy. | | Energy Release | Significant energy release per reaction, but less per unit mass than fusion. | Extremely large energy release, much greater per unit mass than fission. | | Conditions | Can occur at relatively lower temperatures and pressures. Often initiated by neutron bombardment. | Requires extremely high temperatures (millions of degrees Celsius) and pressures to overcome electrostatic repulsion. | | Occurrence | Used in nuclear power plants and atomic bombs. | Occurs naturally in stars (like the Sun). Research is ongoing for controlled fusion on Earth. | | Waste Products | Produces highly radioactive, long-lived nuclear waste. | Produces less radioactive waste, primarily helium, and potentially short-lived radioactive isotopes. | | Chain Reaction | Can lead to a self-sustaining chain reaction if enough fissile material is present. | Does not involve a chain reaction in the same way; requires continuous input of energy to maintain conditions. |