In 1905, Einstein wrote down the most famous equation in physics: E = mc². It says mass and energy are interchangeable — and since c² (the speed of light squared) is ENORMOUS, even a tiny amount of mass can become a staggering amount of energy. This is why nuclear reactions are so powerful. When you split a uranium atom or fuse hydrogen atoms together, a tiny bit of mass "disappears" and becomes pure energy. 1 kg of uranium can release as much energy as burning 3 MILLION kg of coal!
This introduction covers The Power of the Nucleus within Nuclear Fission & Fusion for GCSE Physics. Revise Nuclear Fission & Fusion in Atomic Structure for GCSE Physics with 13 exam-style questions and 25 flashcards. This topic appears less often, but it can still be a useful differentiator on mixed-topic papers. It is section 1 of 18 in this topic. Use this introduction to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Practice questions for Nuclear Fission & Fusion
What is nuclear fission?
Explain what is meant by a chain reaction in nuclear fission.
Quick recall flashcards
What is nuclear fusion?
The joining of two small, light nuclei to form a larger nucleus, releasing energy
What is nuclear fission?
The splitting of a large, unstable nucleus into two smaller nuclei, releasing energy and neutrons